&EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Information
Resources Management
(PM-211D)
220-R-92-001
April 1992
State/EPA Data Management Program
Environmental
Information
Management:
A STATE
GUIDE
Printed on Rec\clecl Paper
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To: State and Native American Representatives, and EPA staff
Protecting our environment and the public health is a huge task— one that
EPA cannot do alone. We depend heavily on our partnerships with State and
local governments, Indian tribes, other Federal agencies, businesses, and the
general public. Strengthening the State-EPA partnership is the reason that the
State/EPA Data Management (SEDM) Program was started in 1987.
The State/EPA Data Management Program is building the foundation for
cooperative State-EPA relationships to accomplish the goals of data sharing,
data integration, and information exchange. By jointly leveraging our invest-
ments in information resources through information sharing and integrated
data analysis, we are making a significant difference to environmental protec-
tion and risk reduction across our nation.
Environmental Information Management: A State Resource Guide, a
product of the SEDM Program, is a quick reference to some of the many sources
of environmental data and environmental information assistance programs and
services that are currently available to States and Native Americans. The intent
of the guide is to point you to the myriad of potential sources of environmental
information and assistance that can help you to attain your environmental
protection goals.
We very much welcome your comments on the State Resource Guide.
There is a form at the back of the guide to make it easy for you to provide updates
and comments to help us improve this resource.
Sincerely,
Alvin M. Pesachowitz, Director
Office of Information Resources Management
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Environmental
Information
Management:
A STATE
RESOURCE GUIDE
Information Sharing Branch
Information Management and Services Division
Office of Information Resources Management
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, DC 20460
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This Environmental Information Management: A State Resource Guide is a
product of the national State/EPA Data Management (SEDM) Program.
The SEDM Program supports EPA's mission by optimizing EPA and State
investments in information resources. The Program fosters nation-wide initia-
tives designed to improve data sharing, data integration, and information
exchange among EPA and State environmental agencies.
The SEDM Program is managed by the Office of Information Resources
Management (OIRM) and implemented by Regional and State coordinators.
Please direct comments or questions about this document to Michele Zenon,
Information Sharing Branch Chief and National SEDM Program Manager:
(202) 260-5913
National SEDM Program
U.S. EPA/OIRM (PM-21 ID)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
EPA E-mail: Zenon.Michele
Fax number: (202) 260-3923
For your convenience, a reply card is provided at the end of this document.
To receive a copy of this document, mail your written request to the above
address.
Any or all portions of this manual may be copied or reproduced without permission.
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FOREWORD
Implementing environmental programs is a shared responsibility among Federal,
State, and local governments. In many cases, States implement Federal environmental
programs in lieu of the Federal government. Clearly, States have an increasingly significant role
to play in ensuring adequate protection of human health and the environment. To most
effectively implement environmental programs, States must have access to and use current and
accurate information. Their information needs are diverse; their requirements may range from
information on current environmental publications to Federal regulatory actions to environ-
mental monitoring data. To maximize their resources, States must also be aware of, and take
advantage of, various programs and organizations that can provide financial or technical
assistance to facilitate the attainment of environmental protection goals.
The intent of this guide is to point State organizations toward a myriad of potential
sources of environmental information and assistance. This resource guide, prepared by
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's State/EPA Data Management (SEDM) Program,
is not intended to be all-inclusive. Rather, its purpose is to identify some of the many sources
of environmental data and to describe a few of the environmental information assistance
programs and services that are currently available to States.
This guide is organized as follows:
• Part I: Assistance from EPA
• Part II: Other Federal Sources of Assistance
• Part III:Other Sources of Assistance
Addresses, phone numbers, and reference documents are clearly highlighted for each
of the resources presented.
We hope that you will find this guide to be a valuable reference tool. This is the first edition,
and it is anticipated that it will be updated periodically. If you are aware of any changes or
additions or if you have any comments, please fill out the reply card at the back of this document.
Note: Any and all costs listed in this guide are current as of publication date and subject to
change without notice. The costs are provided for relative pricing information.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE-\
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CONTENTS
Foreword
PART I: ASSISTANCE FROM EPA
Introduction 1
SEDM Program 2
SEDM Financial Assistance Program 4
Communications and Outreach 6
Other Broad-Based Assistance 7
EPA State,Grant Programs 8
National Enforcement Investigations Center 11
Computer and Data Assistance 13
National Computer Center 14
National GIS Program 16
Systems Development Center 19
Environmental Monitoring Assessment Program 21
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - iii
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Records Management 22
Access to EPA Information 23
EPA's Public Access Program 23
Library Network and Information Services 26
Clearinghouses, Hotlines, Bulletin Boards, and Dockets .... 30
Training Assistance 35
Additional Sources of EPA Assistance 37
Groups and Organizations 37
Other Key EPA Publications 39
PART II: OTHER FEDERAL SOURCES OF ASSISTANCE
Introduction 41
Access to Information 42
Additional Sources of Federal Assistance 46
Groups and Organizations 46
Interagency Multi-Media Efforts 48
Key Federal Publications 51
*»
PART III: OTHER SOURCES OF ASSISTANCE
Introduction 53
State Organizations 54
Native American Organizations 58
Environmental Special Interest Groups 60
iv - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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INTRODUCTION
The mission of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to protect the public
from environmental hazards, to enhance the quality of our natural environment, and to
expand our knowledge of the environment. Organizations throughout EPA work to fulfill this
mission by implementing a variety of environmental programs and by conducting support
activities such as research and development and information management. While each organi-
zation has a unique role, Agency staff throughout Headquarters and the Regional Offices
conduct similar types of activities, such as State program technical and financial assistance. In
fact, many EPA organizations have established effective networks of Regional coordinators to
assist States. The intent of this guide is not to preempt those relationships, but rather to identify
and promote additional sources of assistance that are available at the national level.
Part I of this document describes:
• Three of EPA's broad-based assistance programs to States:
The State/EPA Data Management (SEDM) Program
EPA State grant programs
National Enforcement Investigations Center
• A variety of data management and systems development programs
• Mechanisms for accessing EPA information and publications
• EPA training resources
• Other Agency sources of assistance.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 1
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SEDM PROGRAM
Developing solutions to the environmen-
tal problems facing the nation today
and in the future requires comprehensive strat-
egies that span all media and actively involve
all levels of government and the public. EPA's
environmental data and data management sys-
tems must also reflect a fully integrated view
of our diverse environmental problems in
order to support sound decision-making.
Over the last several years, EPA has taken
a strong leadership role in gathering, manag-
ing, and disseminating high quality environ-
mental data. To do so, the Agency has begun
to standardize data collection methods and
formats and to invest in sophisticated tools for
data integration and analysis. An integral part
of this strategy is the SEDM Program.
The Mission of the SEDM Program
The SEDM Program is of strategic
importance to EPA's overall efforts to enhance
vital information resources and to move toward
more productive State and Federal roles in
environmental protection. SEDM's mission is
to optimize EPA and State investments in
information resources through data sharing,
data integration, and information exchange
(see Figure 1). By working with States, EPA
Regions and Program Offices, and other
governmental agencies, the SEDM Program
develops and sustains the foundation for
cooperative State-EPA relationships.
Accomplishments
Since its inception, the SEDM Program
has completed many successful activities. In
the early years of the Program, initiatives
focused on providing States with greater
access to EPA data and data systems. The
most visible of these initiatives was connecting
all 50 States and Puerto Rico with high speed
access to EPA's National Computer Center.
The last data line became operational in April
1991. Through the SEDM Program and in
cooperation with the environmental Program
Offices, Regions have also assisted States in
acquiring needed hardware and software,
provided State personnel with accounts on
EPA data systems, and developed protocols
for resolving data disputes.
Today, efforts of the SEDM Program con-
tinue to be targeted at aligning the strategic
interests and resources of EPA with those of
its State partners. More than ever before, States
enter into joint ventures with EPA to develop
geographic information systems and other ana-
lytical tools. The improved communications
provided by the SEDM Program allow partici-
pants to share resources and lessons learned so
that everyone benefits.
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DATA SHARING
Promotes and sustains the effective management and sharing of
EPA and State data resources to meet regulatory and
environmental decision-making requirements.
DATA INTEGRATION
Fosters the use of appropriate and innovative technology
for data integration to support multi-media environmental
protection efforts in the States and EPA.
INFORMATION EXCHANGE
Promotes the increased availability and more effective use of
all forms of information—environmental, scientific,
technological, management, and administrative—by EPA and
States to support environmental decision-making.
Figure 1. New Vision for the SEDM Program
Benefits
The SEDM Program offers broad-based
assistance to States in the forms of technical
and financial assistance and outreach. When
implemented effectively, the SEDM Program
provides the following benefits:
• Greater efficiency in data collection,
which causes significant improve-
ments in data handling and routine
program operations.
• Enhanced data quality to ensure
more accurate, timely, and reli-
able information is available to
guide programmatic decisions and
support program oversight.
• Improved data integration to more
effectively target regulatory and com-
pliance activities on risk reduction.
• A more productive working relation-
ship between EPA and the States
which focuses on environmental pro-
tection and minimizes data disputes.
• Improved information exchange
among EPA, other Federal agencies,
and States which results in more
effective use of information resources.
Organization
The primary implementors of the SEDM
Program are the National SEDM Program
Manager, ten EPA Regional Coordinators, and
State participants. The National SEDM Pro-
gram Manager and staff, located within EPA's
Office of Information Resources Management
(OIRM) in Washington, DC, set overall pro-
gram goals and administer program resources.
Regional Coordinators have the flexibility in
implementing the Program to tailor activities to
the needs of the individual Regions and States.
To improve data sharing, data integration,
and information exchange, SEDM Coordina-
tors have established an extensive network of
contacts in the Headquarters, Regional, and
State environmental Program Offices. This
network is rapidly expanding to also include
other State and Federal agencies with environ-
mental information.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 3
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SEDM FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
In 1991, EPA initiated the SEDM Financial
Assistance Program to support the
development of innovative data management
projects. The main objectives for these projects
are to:
• Build and maintain the infrastructure
needed for effective State/EPA data
management and sharing.
• Integrate data across media and
programs so that environmental
managers can target their efforts on
environmental results.
Applicants eligible for funds include
States (including eligible U.S. territories and
possessions), local governments, federally
recognized tribal entities, and universities
and colleges. Projects in all stages of
development—from established programs to
those needing start-up funds—are eligible for
support.
The SEDM Program funds both small
data management projects (less than
$25,000), as well as larger projects ($50,000
to $100,000). Organizations are required to
contribute at least 5% of the total cost of their
project in dollars or in-kind goods/services.
Projects are evaluated and funded by EPA
Regional Offices. Proposals are evaluated
based upon five broad criteria of equal value:
• Appropriateness to the SEDM
Program
• Integrated/multimedia approach
• Potential benefit
• Technical soundness
• Technology transfer plans.
In addition, each Region may develop
subcriteria in each category to reflect local
priorities and goals.
Submitting Applications
To apply for funds, eligible applicants
should request an application kit, including a
Guidance for Applicants document, from
the appropriate EPA Regional grants
management office. Applications must be
submitted according to dates established by
EPA Regional Offices. Your Regional SEDM
Coordinator should always be your first point
of contact for more information on the SEDM
Financial Assistance Program. (Figure 2 shows
the EPA Regions, and Table 1 contains the
names and phone numbers of Headquarters
and Regional contacts).
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«ma^S. • tt^\ r
Figure 2. EPA Regions
Table 1.
EPA Headquarters
and Regional
SEDM Contacts
SEDM Contacts
Headquarters
Region 1:
Region 2:
Region 3:
Region 4:
Region 5:
Region 6:
Region 7:
Region 8:
Region 9:
Region 10:
Michele Zenon
Chris Diehl
George Nossa
Wendy Bartel
Richard Ferrazzuolo
Susanne Buthman
Dick Watkins
Norma Anderson
Bill Murray
MarkHemry
Jim Peterson
(202)260-5913
(617)565-3361
(212)264-9850
(215)597-3215
(404)347-2316
(312)886-6708
(214)655-6540
(913)551-7240
(303) 294-1994
(415)744-1804
(206)553-2977
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 5
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COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH
Establishing communication linkages
among all of the stakeholders in the
SEDM Program poses significant challenges—
the SEDM network is broad and diverse in
nature. To meet the challenge, a major focus
for the SEDM Program has been improving
communications between EPA and States.
With the decentralized structure of the
SEDM organization, a continuous flow of
information among participants is critical to
avoiding redundant endeavors and fostering a
spirit of cooperation. The national SEDM
Program has undertaken an outreach effort
involving numerous methods of
communicating, including national and
Regional information management
conferences, a national news bulletin, e-mail,
and teleconferences.
EPA sponsors national conferences to
bring together senior Federal environmental
program managers from different media
and their peers from States, Indian tribes,
and other Federal agencies. The purpose of
these conferences is to identify new approaches
for sharing and integrating data across media
and programs. EPA Regional Offices have
also sponsored numerous conferences with
State participation to further explore
opportunities for improving data quality,
sharing, and integration.
EPA recently christened the SEDM
Source, a quarterly news bulletin that
discusses SEDM-related activities. To be
placed on the mailing list for the news bulletin,
write to:
Editor
the SEDM Source
U.S. EPA/OIRM (PM-211D)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
Fax number: (202) 260-3923
Please include your name, position,
organization, address (including mail code),
city, state, zip code, and/or telephone
number or EPA e-mail ID.
For more information about national
SEDM conferences or to participate in work
groups and other initiatives, please contact
your SEDM Regional Coordinator.
6 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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OTHER BROAD-BASED
ASSISTANCE
While the SEDM Program focuses on improving information management
capabilities, other EPA organizations and programs are also available to
provide broad-based assistance to States as they implement environmental programs.
This technical and financial assistance is diverse and supports efforts ranging from
environmental monitoring to training to enforcement-case development.
The following discussion provides two examples of EPA assistance available to
States:
• State grant programs
• The National Enforcement Investigations Center (NEIC).
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 7
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EPA STATE GRANT PROGRAMS
EFA's grant programs are a primary
source of technical and financial
assistance to State environmental programs.
EPA has the authority to implement nearly 20
grant programs under a number of
environmental statutes, including the Clean
Air Act (CAA); Clean Water Act (CWA);
Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA);
Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA);
the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA); the Federal Insecticide,
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA); the
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA); and
the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA).
In addition to authorizing EPA to
administer the State grants, the environmental
statutes also specify the types of activities that
are within the scope of the grant award,
authorize funding, and establish State cost
sharing requirements. State activities
conducted under EPA grants are diverse and
may include actions such as:
• Data collection, analysis,
integration, and sharing
• Technical assistance
• Training
• Monitoring
. • Surveillance
• Research and demonstrations
• Investigations
• Enforcement activities
• Program development.
(Table 2 outlines these EPA grant programs.)
Typically, State grants are negotiated and
awarded annually. EPA then evaluates the
grants in accordance with statutory require-
ments and Agency policy.
For more information on EPA State grant
programs or application procedures, write to
the appropriate EPA Regional grants
management office. (See Table 3 on page 10.)
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EPA STATE GRANT PROGRAMS*
Radon State Grants
Surface Water Grant Program
Water Quality Management Grants
State Revolving Loan Program
National Estuary Program
Non-point Source Grant Program
Clean Lakes Program
Underground Injection Control
Program
Public Water Systems Supervision
Grant Program
Wetlands Grants Program
Air Pollution Planning and Control
Grants
Technical Assistance Grants
Hazardous Waste Financial
Assistance
Underground Storage Tank Grants
Pesticides Enforcement Grants
Pesticides Program Implementation
Toxic Substances Enforcement
Grants
SEDM Financial Assistance
Program
Pollution Prevention Grants
*Due to the dynamic nature of the grants process, this list may not be all-inclusive.
Table 2. A partial list of EPA's State grant programs
References
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (PREX 2.20:1991, 1991 Edition)
describes the many assistance programs available at the Federal level. To obtain
a copy of this document, contact the Government Printing Office (GPO) at:
(202) 783-3238
Superintendent of Documents
Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402
HELP!— EPA Resources for Small Governments (21V-1001, September 1991), by
EPA's Office of Regional Operations and State/Local Relations, was designed to help local
officials of smaller jurisdictions find technical, educational, and financial assistance easily
and quickly. The information is from a 1990 inventory of EPA activities available to small
communities. More information may be obtained by writing to the Small Community
Coordinator, U.S. EPA (H-1501), 401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 9
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Regional Grants Management Offices
EPA Region 1
Planning Analysis and Grants Branch
Grants Info, and Analysis Section
U.S. EPA Region 1
JFK Federal Building
Boston, MA 02203
EPA Region 2
Grants Administration Branch
U.S. EPA Region 2 (2GRA)
Jacob K. Javitz Federal Building
26 Federal Plaza
New York, NY 10278
EPA Region 3
Grants Management and Audit Branch
Grants Management Section
U.S. EPA Region 3 (3PM70)
841 Chestnut Building
Philadelphia, PA 19107
EPA Region 4
Resources Management Branch
Grants and Contracts Admin. Section
U.S. EPA Region 4
345 Courtland Street, NE
Atlanta, GA 30365
EPA Region 5
Contracts and Grants Branch
Grants Management Section
U.S. EPA Region 5 (5MCG-10)
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL 60604
EPA Region 6
Assistance Branch
Grants and Audit Section
U.S. EPA Region 6 (6M-AG)
First Interstate Bank Tower
1445 Ross Avenue (Suite 1200)
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
EPA Region 7
Program Integration Branch
Grants Administration Section
U.S. EPA Region 7 (PLMG/PINT)
726 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
EPA Region 8
Grants and Superfund Contracts Branch
U.S. EPA Region 8 (8PM-GSC)
999 18th Street (Suite 500)
Denver, CO 80202-2466
EPA Region 9
Policy and Grants Branch
Grants Management Section
U.S. EPA Region 9
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
EPA Region 10
Comptroller Branch
Grants Management Section
U.S. EPA Region 10 (MD-100)
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
Table 3. Regional grants management offices may be contacted
for more information on State grant programs.
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NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
EFA's National Enforcement Investiga-
tions Center (NEIC) is located in
Denver, Colorado. NEIC serves as the
principal source of expertise involving
civil and criminal litigation support for com-
plex investigations and other support having
national and/or significant Regional impact
on EPA and State regulatory programs. As
part of the Office of Enforcement (OE) and in
coordination with the Regional Offices and
other EPA Program Directors and their staffs,
NEIC:
• Plans, develops, and provides evi-
dence and information interpreta-
tion for case preparations in all pro-
gram areas.
• Provides expertise and guidance to
the OE for the development of multi-
media enforcement strategies and
evidence management.
• Provides national expertise to Head-
quarters and Regional Offices of EPA
and the Department of Justice in
evaluating a broad range of waste
disposal and emission problems,
monitoring technology, and remedial
programs not normally available on
Regional staffs.
OE/NEIC provides support to States to
assist them in building stronger environmental
enforcement programs. Assistance, including
funding, is provided indirectly to States
through four State organizations:
• Northeast Hazardous Waste Project
(States: CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH,
NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT, WV)
(609) 292-0987
25 Market Street, CN 085
Trenton, NJ 08625
Midwest Environmental Enforce-
ment Association (States: I A, IL, IN,
KY, MI, MN, MO, ND, NE, OH, OK,
SD, WI)
(708)742-1249
595 S. State Street, Suite 210
Elgin, IL 60123
Southern Environmental Enforce-
ment Network (States: AL, AR, FL,
GA, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN)
(205)242-7369
Alabama State House
1 1 South Union Street
Montgomery, AL 36130
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -11
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• Western States Hazardous Waste
Project (States: AK, AZ, CA, CO,
HI, ID, NM, NV, UT, WA)
ISS (602)542-3881
gf^ 1275 West Washington
*^ Phoenix, AZ 85007
(Note: The States of Kansas, Mon-
tana, Texas, and Wyoming are not
associated with any of the organiza-
tions listed above, and Ohio is listed
with two organizations.)
These organizations allow member States
to share resources, information, and
experiences to more effectively enforce
their environmental laws. The membership
of these organizations includes offices of
attorneys general, regulatory agencies,
criminal and civil investigators, and State
and local government members of the
environmental enforcement teams.
Assistance from OE/NEIC is provided
to these organizations in three areas:
• Information Management—Comput-
erized information sharing systems
have been developed. Because of the
confidential nature of criminal cases,
the systems have been designed as
pointers that provide the name of a
contact person who can then provide
detailed information on the matter at
hand.
• Training— NEIC aids in designing
and delivering training programs for
environmental enforcement teams.
• Networking— NEIC is building a
network of contacts in the enforce-
ment community for sharing similar
experiences in building court cases.
For more information, call or write:
(303)236-5100
National Enforcement Investigations
Center
U.S. EPA
P.O. Box 25227, Bldg. 53
Denver Federal Center
Denver, CO 80225
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COMPUTER AND DATA
ASSISTANCE
In addition to being the source, State agencies are also the initial and primary users
of the data requested by EPA to manage delegated environmental programs. Thus,
EPA's ability to obtain these data, as well as the ultimate success of the State/EPA
partnership, depends on successfully devising data management policies and systems
that support State efforts to achieve common environmental goals.
There are a variety of EPA resources available to States to assist them in their
management of data. The purpose of this section of the State Resource Guide is to
identify some of these resources which are focused on data and data systems, explain
their functions, and specify general contact information.
Described in this section are services provided by EPA's:
• National Computer Center
• National GIS Program
• Systems Development Center
• Environmental Monitoring Assessment Program
• Records Management Program.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 13
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NATIONAL COMPUTER CENTER
The National Computer Center (NCC) is
one of the largest, most modern, high-
speed computer centers in the nation. Its mis-
sion is to support EPA in the area of scientific
and administrative applications. Residing at
NCC are most of EPA's mission critical data
systems, such as STORET, AIRS, and RCRIS.
NCC serves EPA users and other qualified
agencies and contractors through a vast tele-
communications network which allows the dis-
tribution of computer services to remote loca-
tions. Along with hardware, software, and the
means to communicate data, NCC provides
user support and problem solving services
which can be grouped into eight categories:
>• Planning and Acquisitions— identify-
ing requirements and planning and
procuring mainframe, mini, or per-
sonal computer hardware and software
and telecommunications equipment.
>• Computer Operations— monitoring
and maintaining mainframe processors.
>• Telecommunications— planning,
installing, and implementing requested
data communications services.
>• Technical Support— installing and
maintaining telecommunications soft-
ware and system software products.
>• User Support— working with users to
define the problem and then directing
the problem to the appropriate special-
ist for resolution.
>• Training— providing instruction in the
software services available in the vari-
ous hardware configurations at NCC.
(See also Training Assistance section.)
> Database Support Services— support-
ing the Central Database Administra-
tor in all facets of central database
administration.
>• Information Centers—providing users
with the opportunity to receive
individual assistance and to explore
current data processing techniques.
NCC has also developed the ADP
Exchange Program. This Program allows EPA
and State personnel to spend three days in
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina,
learning about the operations of the Center.
For general information on the Program,
States should call NCC Customer Support
(see next page). For information on costs,
States should contact their Regional
SEDM Coordinator. For more information
on NCC training opportunities, see the section
on Training Assistance starting on page 35.
To request an electronic mail account on
EPA's system, States should first contact their
EPA Regional Coordinator. (See SEDM Pro-
gram section.) To obtain an e-mail ac-
count, a State user must have an EPA sponsor.
Once a State has an e-mail box, they can ask
their Regional SEDM Coordinator to arrange
for them to be added to the SEDM State
E-mail Reference List. Weekly reports and
other items of general interest are posted to the
list. It is also an easy way for States to send
messages and information to other States.
To request access to various EPA informa-
tion systems, States should first contact their
EPA Regional Coordinator. Regional Coordi-
nators can also assist their States in locating the
State site for the NCC telecommunication ac-
14 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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cess and in resolving other access and telecom-
munications issues.
For more information, contact NCC. To
assist with a problem, technicians will require
a name, NCC User-ID, telephone number,
and, if needed, an account number.
NCC Customer Support
(800) 334-2405 or (919) 541 -7862
NCC Telecommunications Support
(800) 334-0741
National Computer Center
.fo U.S. EPA
*^ Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Non-EPA users may access other NCC
resources through the National Technical
Information Service (NTIS). NTIS sets up an
account through which billing for EPA services
and computing resources is accomplished.
[Note: State personnel should first contact their
Regional SEDM Coordinator to arrange ac-
cess to EPA databases.] For more information,
non-EPA or non-State personnel should call::
(703) 487-4763
U.S. Department of Commerce
NTIS
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
Each NTIS account specifies the number
of users allowed, which systems will be used,
and any dollar maximums. Once that financial
agreement is in place, user accounts are as-
signed and activated. Individual account usage
is then billed to the organization which estab-
lished the financial agreement.
References
The Information Systems Inventory (ISI), maintained by EPA's Office of Information
Resources Management, is a computerized inventory of EPA data systems. Updated
annually, the ISI contains the best available summary information on roughly 500 of EPA's
current information systems. It is available in electronic and paper formats in many EPA
libraries, or it may be purchased through the NTIS by calling (703) 487-4650. The ISI,
including user's guide, costs $80 for the personal computer (PB 91-507558) and Macintosh
prototype (PB 91-507566) versions and $31 for the hardcopy version (PB 91-172940).
For more information on NCC services, consult the Guide to NCC Services which is
published by the National Data Processing Division (NDPD) in Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina. The guide provides introductory materials for new users and reference
materials on hardware, telecommunications, and e-mail.
Some additional publications that are useful reference materials are the LAN
Administrator's Technical Reference Guide (December 1989), the EPA IRM Hardware &
Software Standards (September 1991), and the NDPD Operational Policies Manual (June
1991). To obtain a copy of any of the above documents, call NCC's customer support line.
NDPD also publishes a newsletter called the NCC Connection. To be placed on the
mailing list for the newsletter, contact the Washington Information Center at (202) 260-7200.
A bulletin board system using ALL-IN-1 also provides news about NCC-related activities.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 15
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NATIONAL GIS PROGRAM
A geographic information system (GIS)
combines map, model, and monitoring
data into one comprehensive analytic frame-
work which assists engineers, scientists, and
managers in identifying and assessing environ-
mental problems and trends. A GIS provides
sophisticated tools for database creation, data-
base management, analysis of spatial and para-
metric information, and map production. A
GIS has the potential to illustrate to managers
and decision-makers the impacts of environ-
mental policies and programs.
The mission of EPA's National GIS
Program is to provide leadership and support
to decision-makers for identifying and
evaluating environmental conditions through
the development and promotion of GIS
applications and tools. These applications and
tools enable decision-makers to integrate and
visualize the rich existing base of
environmental information.
Since the inception of the National GIS
Program in 1987, GIS installations and
teams have been established in every
Regional Office across EPA to serve as the
GIS coordinating bodies for Regional
applications and support. EPA's national
support infrastructure is comprised of four
major components: OIRM is responsible for
the development of GIS policy and for the
management and coordination of EPA's GIS
information resources, the National Data
Processing Division provides many types of
GIS technical support, the Spatial Analysis
Laboratory of the Environmental Monitoring
Systems Laboratory at Las Vegas focuses on
GIS applied research and development, and
the Regional and Headquarters GIS support
teams, as described earlier.
National Mapping Requirements Program
OIRM has established a National Map-
ping Requirements Program (NMRP) to coor-
dinate the geographic and related spatial data
requirements of the Agency. The NMRP was
designed to be a dynamic, on-going program
for EPA personnel to identify present and long-
term mapping requirements, to communicate
those needs to the appropriate Federal agency,
and to provide mechanisms for acquiring the
needed geographic information.
Under the NMRP, EPA personnel, in
cooperation with their State counterparts,
jointly develop their mapping requirements.
NMRP videotapes are also available to assist
in determining mapping requirements. The
videos are based upon a series of national
mapping seminars that describe products and
services available through the U.S.
Geological Survey (USGS).
In addition, a Resources Guidance
Manual is available that describes spatial
data provided by the respective agencies of
the Federal Geographic Data Committee
(FGDC). The manual also discusses current
trends, capabilities, and spatial data products
of the Federal mapping community. Finally,
plans are also underway to expand and
automate the NMRP Request Form and
submission process.
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Geographic Resource Information
and Data System
To reduce the costs of data acquisition
and application development throughout
EPA, the Agency has implemented a
Geographic Resource Information and Data
System (GRIDS). GRIDS is the EPA's
spatial data library, and it also provides
access to GIS utilities. The types of spatial
data available in GRIDS include demographic/
population data, digital elevation models,
hydrography and transportation, and USGS
Geographic Names Information System. The
GIS News Alert is a module to disseminate
information on system enhancements,
suggestions, and data availability to the user
community.
GRIDS resides on the NCC mainframe
and is accessible via the EPA Wide Area
Network. As with most other systems
residing on the mainframe, it is available for
use by EPA, other Federal agencies, State
and local governments, and universities. Non-
EPA users are permitted to use the system,
provided that they are working for or in
cooperation with a Headquarters or Regional
EPA Office. Use of the geographic data
coverages may be subject to licensing
agreements, but data are often available for
the cost of either connect time on the network
or the costs of reproduction and shipping.
For more information on the National
GIS Program, contact Thomas G. Dewald,
Program Manager:
(703) 557-3083
National GIS Program
U.S. EPA (3405R)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
For information on NMRP, contact Jeff
Booth at the above address or:
(703)557-3088
For information on GRIDS, contact Robert
Pease at the above address or:
(703)557-3018
For information on applied research and
development, contact Mason Hewitt at:
(702)798-2377
Environmental Monitoring System
Laboratory (EMSL)/ORD
U.S. EPA
P.O. Box 93478
Las Vegas, NV 89 193-3478
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 17
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Q_] References
The EPA CIS News news bulletin facilitates communication regarding relevant
issues among EPA's GIS managers and analysts. To be included on the mailing
list, contact Mike Long at:
(703)557-3140
National GIS Program
U.S. EPA/OIRM (3405R)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
In addition, an electronic bulletin board system will be available in mid-1992.
The system will be accessed through existing user accounts on the EPA telecom-
munications network.
The National GIS Program also publishes several documents. GIS Worksta-
tion Implementation Guidelines (Draft August 1991) provides instructions on
planning for GIS workstation technology and describes the role of the system
administrator, provides tips for preparing a workstation implementation plan, and
identifies system connectivity issues and requirements.
The GIS Portfolio, due in mid-1992, will describe case studies of GIS
implementation throughout the nation.
To obtain copies of these and other GIS documents, contact Mike Long at the
address given above.
18 - SEDM's STATE RESOVRCE GUIDE
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SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
The Systems Development Center (SDC)
is EPA's Center of Excellence for systems
development projects that support, develop,
and enhance EPA's mission critical data
systems. Its purpose is to assist the Agency's
programs in developing high-quality
environmental data and systems for data
management and dissemination. The first
priority is improving the quality, usability,
and access to EPA's data and data systems.
The SDC evaluates new systems devel-
opment methodologies and technologies
to improve EPA's system and software devel-
opment methods and strives to better inte-
grate them into the development process, thus
adding greater consistency and structure to
EPA's systems environment. The SDC focus-
es on building a modern infrastructure for
systems development with features such as:
• Information engineering to improve
systems quality and consistency
• Computer-Aided Systems Engineer-
ing (CASE) tools to assist system
developers
• Project management standards for
better scheduling and cost
estimation.
The SDC works to educate the
information resources management (IRM)
community with regards to EPA IRM
standards, policies, and procedures, as well as
technology and development issues. One of
the SDC's challenges is to keep Regions and
States informed of and involved with
Headquarters' systems-related activities.
Likewise, the Regions and States should
inform the SDC of their systems-related
activities and needs and should remain
current with EPA Headquarters' initiatives.
For more information, call the SDC at:
(703) 557-3000
Systems Development Center
U.S. EPA (3405R)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 19
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References
EPA publishes a large number of documents on systems development, data
standards, and other relevant topics. Some key references are:
Agency Catalog of Data Policies and Standards, (21M-1019, Draft) provides up-to-
date information on the current data standards that should be followed in developing,
implementing, operating and maintaining all EPA information systems and services.
Information Resources Management Policy Manual (EPA 2100, July 1987) contains
policy that governs the management of information, including: the sharing of data between
EPA and State environmental agencies; the development of data standards; development
and use of Agency software; acquisition and operation of ADP resources; and information
security and records management.
Information Security Manual (EPA 21M-1008, December 1989) provides information
on how to maintain information availability, integrity, and confidentiality.
System Design and Development Guidance (EPA 21M-1011, June 1989) is a series
of documents which provide a methodology for defining missions needs and for
designing an information system that will satisfy OIRM review. Supplement to Volumes
A & B: Guidance for Developing Image Processing Systems in EPA (February 1991)
provides guidance for EPA managers interested in determining whether electronic
image processing technology may be a cost-effective alternative for their information
management needs. Supplemental Guidance to Volume B: EPA/ADP Applications
Guidance to Hardware/Software Selection (August 1990) provides a structured approach
for selecting hardware, software, and communication options to meet the requirements of
an automated system.
Operations and Maintenance Manual (April 1990) is also a supplement to the System
Design and Development Guidance. It presents the important aspects of managing a
software system during the operations and maintenance phase of the system lifecycle.
For a copy of any of the above documents, contact:
OIRM/IMSD
U.S. EPA(PM-211D)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
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ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING ASSESSMENT PROGRAM
In the 1980s, EPA's Science Advisory
Board (SAB) criticized the effectiveness
of EPA's environmental monitoring
program. The SAB indicated that EPA had
not collected enough data over a long enough
time period to assess the status of ecological
resources or to measure overall progress
toward legally mandated goals of mitigating
or preventing adverse ecological effects. The
Board recommended that EPA set up a program
to monitor ecological status and trends
through long-term data gathering on national
and Regional scales, rather than short-term,
locally focused data gathering.
In response to the Board's recommenda-
tions, EPA initiated the Environmental Moni-
toring Assessment Program (EMAP) within
the Office of Research and Development in
1988. EMAP is not intended as a substitute
for other monitoring and research efforts;
instead, it is a framework for integrating
existing and new data. EMAP networks will
provide unbiased, statistical estimates of sta-
tus, trends, and associations with quantifi-
able confidence limits on regional and
national scales for time periods of years to
decades. EMAP will also provide a frame-
work for cooperative planning and imple-
mentation efforts in cooperation with other
agencies and organizations that have active
ecological and natural resource monitoring
programs.
EMAP will also supply data to the new
EPA Center for Environmental Statistics,
located in the Office of Policy Planning and
Evaluation, whose mission will be to char-
acterize holistic trends in environmental
quality by integrating data from many
sources and media.
EMAP is coordinating with many other
Programs Offices within EPA, as well as with
other Federal agencies and States. EPA offices
include: Water; Policy, Planning and
Evaluation; Atmospheric Research and
Exposure Assessment Laboratory; and Research
and Development. Federal agencies include
the Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of
Agriculture (USDA), and Army Corps of
Engineers. EMAP will also draw upon the
monitoring efforts of the National Wetlands
Inventory and National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NO A A) Coastal
Oceans Program. Non-governmental EMAP
participants include universities and
environmental conservation groups such as the
Nature Conservancy. This coordination avoids
duplicative monitoring efforts, facilitates the
exchange of data, and increases the expertise
available for refining program design and
interpreting monitoring results.
For more information about EMAP,
call or write:
(202)260-7238
Office of Modeling, Monitoring
Systems, and Quality Assurance
U.S. EPA (RD680)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -21
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RECORDS MANAGEMENT
EFA's Records Management Program,
located within OIRM, is responsible for
reviewing Federal and EPA requirements gov-
erning the management of recorded informa-
tion, evaluating the lifecycle of records,
defining the roles and responsibilities of
the records manager, and presenting a model
for a Regional Records Center.
In addition to preserving the Agency's
official records, the Program promotes access
to needed information by sponsoring confer-
ences and training on records management.
The Program also publishes a newsletter and
various documents related to records manage-
ment (see references below).
EPA's Records Management Program
has undertaken a multi-year project to
totally revise the Agency's records
disposition schedules. A major question
to be addressed during the revision is the
disposition of records that are inter-
governmental in nature, either because they
relate to a program (such as permitting) that is
delegated to States, or because related records
are held at both the State and Federal levels.
The review will address questions such as the
responsibilities of the parties for maintaining
records, who is the holder of the official
records, and disposition requirements.
Agency records management staff will
assist States interested in any aspect of the
management and disposition of intergovern-
mental records. For more information,
contact Michael Miller, National Program
Manager for Records Management, at:
(202)260-5911
OIRM/IMSD(PM-211D)
U-S-EPA
40 1M Street SW
Washington, DC 20460
References
The Model Regional Records Management Operating Procedures Manual (Draft)
provides guidance on establishing a records management program. The manual addresses
issues of efficiency as well as performance. Other guidance documents are available on
managing a records management program, evaluating vital records, and many other topics.
To obtain copies of documents, call or write to the address above.
EPA Info Access, published by EPA Headquarters Library, is a monthly publication
on information and records issues. To receive a complementary subscription, write:
Info Access Editor
Network Coordinator (PM-211A)
U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
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ACCESS TO EPA
INFORMATION
EPA' s commitment to data sharing requires standard ways for the public to access data and
services in a cost-effective manner. In response to this need, the Agency has developed
a number of tools, services, and organizations to assist the public and, in particular, States in
obtaining and using environmental information. Services include clearinghouses,
libraries, and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) offices. Most services are coordinated
through EPA's National Public Access Program. This program and its related services are
described in the pages that follow. If the desired information is a telephone number of
an EPA employee, call the EPA Locator:
(202) 260-2090
EPA's PUBLIC ACCESS PROGRAM
The demand by the public to access
information maintained by the
government, particularly environmental
information, has increased significantly
within the past few years. EPA has
experienced this demand through receipt of
increasing numbers of requests for its
information from members of the public.
Congress has also been responding to the
public's desire to obtain environmental
information by proposing legislation that
contains public access requirements for the
Agency. These factors, combined with a
desire by EPA to use public education
campaigns to facilitate the attainment of stated
Agency goals (such as risk reduction and
pollution prevention), highlight the importance
of public access efforts within EPA.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 23
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EPA is currently addressing public access
through a variety of approaches and
mechanisms. OIRM has established a National
Public Access Program to provide leadership
and coordination for these diverse public
access efforts. To meet this goal of
providing leadership and coordination,
OIRM has conducted the various activities and
produced several products as described below:
• Public Access Forums— OIRM
conducted several forums for senior
management to increase their
awareness of public access to EPA
information mechanisms and issues.
The forums provided useful input for
the development of a draft policy and
strategy on public access. The forums
also enabled managers to better
anticipate and plan for public access
activities within their respective
organizations.
• Public Access Policy— B ased in part
on the information gathered from the
forums, OIRM is developing a policy
that provides guidelines on how the
Agency should handle public access
to environmental information. The
draft policy states that EPA has a
responsibility to provide cost
effective, efficient, and appropriate
access to Agency information within
available resources and to make
information available in forms that
are useful to the public.
• Guidance on Implementing
Policy— EPA is developing an
Agency-wide strategy to provide
guidance for implementing EPA's
Public Access Policy. Recommen-
dations for EPA's public access
strategy have been drafted.
Interagency Conference— EPA
sponsored the first interagency con-
ference on public access on May 20-
21, 1991. It offered departmental
and agency officials an opportunity
to discuss issues surrounding public
access to government information,
particularly that which is collected or
generated and maintained in an elec-
tronic format. The conference also
provided an opportunity for Federal
agencies to share their experiences.
Access EPA— OIRM has published
a series of guides to better facilitate
access to EPA information resources,
services and products. (See Reference
on the next page.)
Public Information Center— The
EPA Public Information Center (PIC)
is the primary point of communica-
tions between EPA and the public,
and it responds to thousands of
requests per month on all major
environmental topics. A new PIC
has been established at EPA Head-
quarters that is more accessible for
visitors. In addition to its functions as
a referral center and dissemination
point for non-technical consumer-
oriented information, the new PIC
offers an array of information videos,
displays, and databases. More infor-
mation on the PIC is given in the
section entitled Library Network and
Information Services.
EPA Publications Procedures—
EPA is working to streamline the
process of planning, designing,
printing, and disseminating pub-
lications.
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References
Access EPA is a series of directories that provide contact information and
descriptions of services offered by libraries, databases, information centers,
clearinghouses, hotlines, dockets, records management programs, and related
information sources. OIRM produces the Access EPA series to improve access to
environmental information provided by EPA and other public sector organiza-
tions. Currently, there are seven directories in the series and one consolidated
volume entitled Access EPA. Each directory is updated annually. Access EPA
replaces EPA's Information Resources Directory (IRD).
Publication Title
Access EPA
Access EPA: Public Information Tools
Access EPA: Major EPA Dockets
Access EPA: Clearinghouses and Hotlines
Access EPA: Records Management Programs
Access EPA: Major EPA Environmental Databases
Access EPA: Library and Information Services
Access EPA: State Environmental Libraries
EPA#
EPA/IMSD/91-100
EPA/IMSD/91-101
EPA/IMSD/91-102
EPA/IMSD/91-103
EPA/IMSD/91-104
EPA/IMSD/91-105
EPA/IMSD/91-106
EPA/IMSD/91-107
NTIS#
PB-151563
PB-151571
PB-151589
PB-151597
PB-151605
PB-151613
PB-151621
PB-151639
The Government Printing Office (GPO)
will sell the consolidated volume of Access
EPA. The GPO stock number is 055-000-
00378-5, and the price is $ 18. To order, call:
"25s (202) 783-3238
The National Technical Information
Service (NTIS) will sell all eight titles. To
order, call:
(800) 553-NTIS
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 25
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LIBRARY NETWORK AND INFORMATION SERVICES
There are 28 EPA network libraries
located in Headquarters, Regional
Offices and specialized, scientific labo-
ratories to support EPA nationwide. Addi-
tional EPA information services include the
Environmental Criteria and Assessment
Office, the Legislative Reference Library,
and the Public Information Center. (Profiles
of these services are on the following pages.)
EPA's libraries and information services
contain a combined collection of more than
136,000 books, 5,100 journals subscriptions,
364,000 hard copy reports, 3,200,000 docu-
ments on microfilm and microfiche, 9,000
journal article reprints, and 25,000 maps. Most
of the library network's holdings are cata-
loged on the Online Library System (OLS)
and stored in the National Catalog Database.
The OLS is a computerized card catalog
for EPA's library network which is updated
every two weeks. This central library catalog
system improves access to the wealth of infor-
mation available from the EPA libraries, plus
EPA reports indexed by NTIS. It consists of
several related databases that can be used to
locate books, reports and articles on a variety
of topics. The major databases on the OLS
are the National Catalog, Hazardous Waste
Collection, Climatic Change, Clean Lakes,
and Chemical Information Collection. The
OLS is accessible at EPA libraries and also
accessible through NCC for only the cost
of a phone call. For more information on how
to log onto the OLS, contact the nearest EPA
library. To obtain the OLS User Guide and
other system documentation, contact the
EPA library in RTP at:
(919)541-2777
Many types of libraries (e.g., municipal,
university, State agency, EPA, etc.) partici-
pate in interlibrary loan programs that
allow a user to access materials locally that are
available at other libraries. The fees involved
depend upon the lending library, though the
fees usually are the nominal costs of mailing of
materials from one library to another. Some
libraries also are part of cooperative Regional
efforts providing computerized public access
catalogs. These collective card catalogs allow
the search of multiple libraries' collections
simultaneously. Contact your local library to
find out if it is involved in such a program.
In general, anyone can access the public
information available through EPA's network
libraries and information services; however,
each library varies in terms of services provided,
information collection subjects, and
operating hours. They also have varying
priorities for handling inquiries from various
parties. For specifics, contact the information
service of interest or the local EPA Regional
Office's library. (See Table 3.)
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EPA Headquarters and Regional Libraries
Headquarters Library
U.S.EPA(PM-211A)
401 M Street, SW, Room 2904
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 260-5921
Region 1 Library
U.S. EPA
JFK Federal Building
Boston, MA 02203
(617) 565-3300
Region 2 Library
U.S. EPA
26 Federal Plaza, Room 402
New York, NY 10278
(212)264-2881
Region 3 Information Resource Center
U.S. EPA (3PM52)
841 Chestnut Building
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215)597-0580
Region 4 Library
U.S. EPA (G6)
345 Courtland Street, NE
Atlanta, GA 30365-2401
(404) 347-4216
Region 5 Library
U.S. EPA
77 West Jackson Boulevard
12th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
(312)353-2022
Region 6 Library
U.S. EPA
First Interstate Bank Tower
1445 Ross Avenue
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
(214) 655-6444
Region 7 Library
U.S. EPA
726 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
(913)551-7241
Region 8 Library
U.S. EPA (8PM-IML)
999 18th Street, Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2466
(303)293-1444
Region 9 Library
U.S. EPA
75 Hawthorne Street, 13th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415)744-1510
Region 10 Library
U.S. EPA (MD-108)
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
(206)442-1289
Table 3. EPA's libraries contain a wealth of information accessible to States. The Headquarters and
Regional libraries are listed above, and additional libraries are on the next page.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 27
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Additional EPA Libraries
Andrew W. Breidenbach
Environmental Research
Center Library
U.S. EPA
26 W Martin Luther King Dr
Cincinnati, OH 45268-4545
(513) 569-7707
Atmospheric Sciences
Modeling Division Library
Atmospheric Research and
Exposure Assessment
Laboratory (MD-80)
U.S. EPA
RTP,NC27711
(919)541-4536
Central Regional Labora-
tory Library
U.S. EPA
839 Bestgate Road
Annapolis, MD 21401
(301)266-9180
Environmental Monitoring
Systems Laboratory
Library
U.S. EPA
P.O. Box 93478
Las Vegas, NV 89193-3478
(702) 798-2648
Environmental Research
Laboratory Library
U.S. EPA
Sabine Island
Gulf Breeze, FL 32561-5299
(904)934-9218
Environmental Research
Laboratory Library
U.S. EPA
College Station Road
Athens, GA 30613-7799
(404) 546-3302
Environmental Research
Laboratory Library
U.S. EPA
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, MN 55804
(218)720-5538
Environmental Research
Laboratory Library
U.S. EPA
200 SW 35th Street
Corvallis, OR 97333
(503)757-4731
Environmental Research
Laboratory Library
U.S. EPA
27 Tarzwell Drive
Narragansett, Rl 02882
(401) 782-3025
Law Library (LE-130L)
U.S. EPA, Room 2902
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
(202)260-5919
Legislative Reference
Library (A-102)
U.S. EPA, Room 2439
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 260-5425
Library Services Office
U.S. EPA (MD-35)
RTP,NC27711
(919)541-2777
Motor Vehicle Emission
Laboratory Library
U.S. EPA
2565 Plymouth Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
(313)668-4311
National Enforcement
Investigations Center
Library
U.S. EPA
DFC, Bldg 53, Box 25227
Denver, CO 80225
(303) 236-5122
Office of Air Quality
Planning and Standards
Library
U.S. EPA
523 Mutual Plaza (MD-16)
RTP,NC27711
(919)541-5514
Office of Toxic Substances
Chemical Library (TS-793)
U.S. EPA, Room B002
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 260-3944
Region 2 Field Office
Library
U.S. EPA
2890 Woodbridge Avenue,
Building 209 (MS-245)
Edison, NJ 08837
(201) 321-6762
Robert S. Kerr Environ-
mental Research Library
U.S. EPA
P.O. Box 1198, Kerr Lab Rd.
Ada, OK 74820
(405) 332-8800
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ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA AND ASSESSMENT OFFICE
Within the Office of Research and
Development, Office of Health and Environ-
mental Assessment, the Environmental Crite-
ria and Assessment Office (ECAO) prepares
human health-based risk assessment documents
and conducts research on systemic toxicity and
chemical mixtures. ECAO also has the
responsibility for providing site-, situation-
and chemical specific assessments covering
single and complex chemical exposures.
ECAO serves as a focal point for the col-
lection, summarization, evaluation and assess-
ment of all available data, from both national
and international sources, concerning the
toxic effects that may result from exposure to
various environmental pollutants. A wide vari-
ety of organizations use the documents gener-
ated by ECAO—they include intra-agency
offices; other Federal agencies; local, State,
and foreign governments; international agen-
cies; the academic community; and special
interest groups in the private sector.
Requests for information about ECAO
documents should first be directed to the
National Technical Information Service (see
page 43). If NTIS does not maintain the infor-
mation, contact the ECAO at (513) 569-7531 or
write to the ECAO-Cin, 26 West Martin Luther
King Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45268.
|_|_| References
The Public Information Center Publications List is updated monthly with documents
currently available through the PIC. (See next page.)
Certain libraries are designated as Government Depository Libraries, and they are
reference sources for many official government publications. The Directory of US
Government Depository Libraries is available at no charge from the Government Printing
Office (see Part II).
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -29
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PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTER
The Public Information Center (PIC)
provides a wide variety of non-technical
information about EPA and its programs
to the general public and EPA staff. As the
primary point of communications between
EPA and the public, the PIC responds to more
than 5,000 inquiries per month on all major
environmental topics, including: acid rain,
air quality, drinking water, gas mileage,
indoor air pollution, toxic substances,
pesticides, radon, recycling, and wetlands.
The PIC services include:
• Handling general inquiries regarding
EPA activities and environmental
concerns.
• Acting as a referral center for techni-
cal inquiries and non-EPA inquiries.
• Providing on-site information services
to visitors and staff.
• Networking with EPA project
officers to offer public information
services where possible.
• Assisting EPA staff with compiling
informational packets.
There is no charge for these services or for a
list of currently available publications. For
more information, call or write:
(202)260-7751
Public Information Center
U.S. EPA
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
CLEARINGHOUSES, HOTLINES, BULLETIN BOARDS, & DOCKETS
EPA develops clearinghouses to establish
a core of substantive information and
provide a means for interested users to access
information. The clearinghouses act as central
access points for hard-to-locate technical
reports and documents, and many use hotlines
and bulletin boards to provide convenient
access for remote users. A docket is a collec-
tion of documents that is the basis for EPA
rulemaking actions. Detailed information on
all of these sources can be found in the Access
EPA series, which was described earlier under
the Public Access Program.
Generally, there is no charge for verbal
inquiries to the information services listed
below, other than the cost of a long distance
call. For specifics on any charges associated
with an information source, contact the source
directly at the number listed.
This section profiles EPA's Publications
and Information Center, a clearinghouse for
scientific and technical information, and lists
many other clearinghouses, hotlines, bulletin
boards, and dockets.
30 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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EPA PUBLICATIONS AND INFORMATION CENTER
The EPA Publications and Information
Center (EPIC) is a major resource for an
extensive body of public-oriented and scien-
tific/technical environmental information.
The Center responds through more than 40
different program representatives to the pub-
lic, the regulated community, academia, and
other Federal and regulated State agencies in
the dissemination of publications and multi-
media products.
(513)569-7980
EPA Publications and Information
Center
Office of Research and Development
U.S. EPA
26 West Martin Luther King Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45268
OTHER SELECT CLEARINGHOUSES, HOTLINES,
BULLETIN BOARDS, AND DOCKETS
GENERAL
INFORMATION SOURCE
Center for Environmental
Research Information
(CERI)
Environmental Financing
Information Network
(EFIN)
INFOTERRA
Pollution Prevention
Information Clearinghouse
(PPIC)
DESCRIPTION
TELEPHONE
, NUMBER
Focal point for exchange of scientific (5lS) 589-7562
and technical information within the > j
Federal government and to the public
Financing alternatives for State/local (202) 260-0420
environmental programs and projects; !
: holds abstracts and names of financial/
program experts; for access call :
NCSL's LEGISNET: (303) 830-2200,
National Small Flows Clearinghouse:
(800) 624-8301, or Public Technology's
LEX: (202) 626-2400
International environmental
information
Pollution prevention, source reduction
and recycling of industrial hazardous
waste. Includes a reference library,
electronic reference, hotline and
outreach efforts
(202) 260-5917
(703) 821-4800
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 31
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AIR AND RADIATION
INFORMATION SOURCE
Air Docket
Air Risk Information
Support Center
(AIR RISC) Hotline
BACT/LAER
Clearinghouse
Control Technology Center
(CTC) Hotline
EPA Model Clearinghouse
National Air Toxics
Information Clearinghouse
(NATICH)
DESCRIPTION
Contains the public record of
information used in the promulgation
or revisi6n;,6f Agency rulemakirig and
certain other decisions under the
Clean Air Act - .
Health, exposure and risk assessment
of toxic air pollutants
[Best Available Control Technology
at Lowest Achievable Emission Rate]
Air pollution control technology
related to new source review
permitting requirements
Air emissions and air pollution
control technology for all air
pollutants including air toxics
emitted by stationary sources
Interpretation of modeling guidance
Includesa related electronic bulletin
bqard_ ^~ _^ •• ''. __ ^_
Air toxics (non-criteria air pollutants)
and the development of air toxics
control programs
32 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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HAZARDOUS AND SOLID WASTE
INFORMATION SOURCE
Alternative Treatment
Technology Information
Center (ATTIC)
CERCLIS Helpline
Emergency Planning and
Community Right-to-Know
Hotline
National Response Center
Hotline
RCRA Docket
Information Center
RCRA/SuperfunoVOUST
Assistance Hotline
Superfund Docket and
Information Center
UST Docket
TELEPHONE
DESCRIPTION NUMBER
Hazardous waste technologies (301) 670-6294
Includes a hotline, electronic bulletin
board, and reference library
Comprehensive Environmental (202) 260-0056
Response, Compensation, and (202) 260-0057
Liability Information System
Emergency Planning and Community (800) 535-0202
Right-to-Know Act (Title HI of
SARA)
Contact this 24-hour hotline to (800) 424-8802
report accidental releases of oil and
hazardous substances
Indexes and provides public access to (202) 260-3046
all regulatory materials supporting
the Agency's actions under RCRA
and disseminates current technical
and non-technical Office of Solid
Waste publications
RCRA, Underground Storage Tanks, (800) 424-9346
Superfund/CERCLA, and Pollution
Prevention/Waste Minimization
Responds to all inquiries for (202) 260-9760
information on the Superfund
program and requests for access to
docket files and copies of designated
documents
Provides public access to regulatory (202) 260-9720
information supporting the Agency's
regulatory actions on underground
storage tanks
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 33
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PESTICIDES AND Toxic SUBSTANCES
INFORMATION SOURCE
Asbestos Ombudsman
Clearinghouse/Hotline
FIFRA (Pesticides) Docket
Toxic Substances Docket
TSCA Assistance
Information Service
._ DESCRIPTION ,!'.1.-..'l.i_"^.
Asbestos abatement
< Sjupirai^,the^^er^][nsecticide,
Fungicide, and SRodenticide Act
Houses the official copies of all Office
of Toxic Substances administrative
records supporting regulatory
decisions '"•„_' , _ . _-
Toxic Substances Control Act
regulatory information
WATER
INFORMATION SOURCE
Clean Lakes Clearinghouse
Drinking Water Docket
Environmental Financing
Information Network
(EFIN)
National Small Flows
Clearinghouse
Nonpoint Source Pollution
Exchange
Safe Drinking Water
Hotline
TELEPHONE
* *
NUMBR "
«
(202)260^3027.
(2021260^420,
DESCRIPTION - _•
Lake restoration, management, and
protection
Supports the Safe Drinking Water
Act Section 1412
(See description on page 31)
Small community water and
wastewatertreatment _____ o'|.o£ ^||^
. - ™-T~T- __•'•-"i-'TIJJ
Nonpoint sources of water pollution (202) 260|7|10
Safe Drinking Water Act and
Amendments
34 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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TRAINING ASSISTANCE
Many organizations throughout EPA, particularly the Program Offices, offer training
and technical assistance to States. These training courses are often held in or
near EPA Regional Offices and range from highly technical sessions to hands-on health and
safety training to professional development programs. The following pages describe ADP
training available through EPA's National Computer Center and reference other sources of
information on available training.
NCC TRAINING
Through NCC, the National Data
Processing Division provides ADP training
at a reasonable cost to employees of, and
contractors to, EPA, other Federal agencies,
and State and local governments. The
training is available in several formats:
• Classroom instruction courses— courses
are usually at NCC or the Washington
Information Center (WIC), but they may
also be provided at the requestor's site.
• Computer-based training— with this self-
paced instruction, the student responds
to questions from the computer/teacher.
• Interactive video instruction— it involves
the most advanced technology and is made
available through Regional Offices.
• Videotape training— NCC has a library
of training classes on VHS videotapes.
There is no cost if the attendee registers
for courses at NCC or the WIC. If training
personnel from NCC or the WIC conduct the
training on-site, the cost is $750 per day,
and the arrangements need to be made
through the Regional Training Coordinator
who ensures that adequate funding is avail-
able. The training videotapes are distributed
free of charge through the Regional Training
Coordinatorthough only a limited numbers
of tapes are available to each Region.
The training is coordinated through two
training offices. PC and Macintosh training is
provided through the WIC; NCC provides
training on the mainframe, E-mail, and LANs
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -35
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among others. The training office for NCC can
be contacted at:
The training office for the WIC can be
contacted at:
(800)334-2405
EPA National Computer Center
Training Office (MD-34B)
Research Triangle Park, NC 277 1 1
(202)260-3201
EPA Washington Information Center
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
References
NCC and many Program and Regional Offices provide various types of training to
States. Further information is available through the course offerors, such as the EPA
Regional Training Coordinator for Regional training or NCC for their catalog of training
courses. Other examples are listed below.
The EPA Institute provides personal development training. For more information on
the specific courses they offer, write:
EPA Institute (PM-224)
U.S. EPA
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
The Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER) lists its training courses
in The OSWER Source Book (EPA/540/9-99/001) May 1991. To receive a copy, reference
both the publication title and number and write to OSWER at the:
Technology Innovation Office
U.S. EPA (OS-110)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
EPA lists numerous pollution prevention resources and training courses in Pollution
Prevention Training Opportunities. To receive a copy, write to the:
Pollution Prevention Information Clearinghouse
SAIC
8400 Westpark Drive
McLean, VA 22102
36 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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ADDITIONAL SOURCES
OF EPA ASSISTANCE
In addition to the aforementioned EPA resources, there are also various Agency organizations
and publications that may be of assistance to States. Although many Agency groups work with
States on an ongoing basis as they implement their programs, only a few key organizations that
focus on information sharing are mentioned here. Similarly, while there are many EPA publica-
tions available, this document merely provides a short list of potential resources.
GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Many organizations throughout EPA incorporate the views of State and local govern-
ments into EPA operations. These committees also serve as liaisons between EPA and
other governmental entities. A few of the more prominent groups that deal with data manage-
ment issues are described below.
NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND TECHNOLOGY
The mission of the National Advisory
Council for Environmental Policy and Tech-
nology (NACEPT), formerly known as the
National Advisory Council for Environmental
Technology Transfer (NACETT), is to bridge
the gap from problem identification to envi-
ronmental solutions through successful
program implementation and consensus
building. NACEPT, established in 1988, is a
voluntary organization comprised of represen-
tatives from business and industry, academia,
governments, and non-government orga-
nizations. The EPA Deputy Administrator
appoints members for three-year terms.
There are currently 54 officially appointed
NACEPT members.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 37
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NACEPT was born out of the realization
that the national response to growing environ-
mental degradation and the increasing rate of
environmental change, complexity, and com-
petition for limited resources required consen-
sus-building approaches. NACEPT was
intended to demonstrate that empowering the
Agency to extend itself beyond its traditional
boundaries would produce improved program
implementation results by leveraging Agency
knowledge and limited resources with public
and private partners throughout the world.
In addition to providing information
on overall concerns, NACEPT relies on
committees, with subcommittees as nec-
essary, for advice on specific issues. The
standing committees are: Pollution Prevention
Education, Trade and Environment, State
and Local Programs, Technology Innova-
tion and Economics, and Environmental
Measurements and Chemical Accident Pre-
vention. All matters decided at the committee
level are forwarded to the full council for
review and action before being forwarded to
the EPA Administrator for consideration.
The goal of NACEPT's State and Local
Programs Committee is to foster improve-
ments in the capacity of State and local
governments to carry out their environ-
mental management responsibilities. With
the growing demand for new solutions to
environmental problems, the need for effective
cooperation, coordination, and communica-
tions between and among levels of govern-
ment has never been greater.
For more information, contact NACEPT
through EPA's Office of Cooperative
Environmental Management (OCEM) at:
(202) 260-9741
NACEPT
OCEM (A-101F6)
U.S. EPA
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
EPA IRM STEERING COMMITTEE
The EPA IRM Steering Committee is
composed of State, Regional and Headquar-
ters' Senior Managers appointed by the
Deputy Administrator. -It-meets-twice a year
and is chaired by Alvin Pesachowitz, Director
of OIRM. The Steering Committee advises
EPA on information policy and resource man-
agement issues. Much of its work is conducted
by smaller task forces which report back to the
Steering Committee with findings and recom-
mendations. An example of a task force is the
Locational Accuracy Task Force (L ATF), which
studied the issue of a locational accuracy stan-
dard for the Agency and then reported back to
the Steering Committee with findings and
recommendations. Including State, Regional,
and Headquarters' representatives on the LATF
allowed for a variety of perspectives to be
heard and incorporated into the findings.
For more general information, contact
your Regional SEDM Coordinator. More
specific information may be gained by
contacting Alvin Pesachowitz at:
(202) 260-4465
OIRM(PM-211)
U.S. EPA
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
38 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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STATE/LOCAL RELATIONS DIVISION
The State/Local Relations Division, within
EPA's Office of the Associate Administrator
for Regional Operations and State/Local
Relations, advises and informs the EPA
Administrator with regards to intergovern-
mental relations and concerns. It recom-
mends and coordinates the Administrator's,
Deputy Administrator's, and/or other EPA
Headquarters officials' personal involvement
in relations with State/tribal/county/local
government officials through its State/EPA
Operations Committee and other forums.
On environmental issues, programs, and
initiatives, the State/Local Relations Division
serves as the point of contact for groups rep-
resenting State, tribal, and local governments,
as well as the governments themselves. With
the responsible program and Regional Offices,
the Division identifies and seeks solutions to
emerging intergovernmental issues. It ensures
the State/tribal/local perspectives are brought
to bear in the development of EPA policies
and programs in the media offices. The Divi-
sion also coordinates and provides technical
assistance between Headquarters/Regional
components and State/tribal/local governments
in resolving broad, issue-oriented intergov-
ernmental problems. It works with Regional
Administrators to develop and encourage
adoption of improved methods for dealing
with State, tribal, and local governments on
specific EPA initiatives.
For more information, contact:
(202)260-4719
State/Local Relations Division
Office for Regional Operations and
State/Local Relations (HI502)
U.S. EPA
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
OTHER KEY EPA PUBLICATIONS
The following list provides a sampling of the types of materials available, grouped by
subject area, from or about EPA. Many other references are listed with their relevant
subject areas throughout the text of this document.
EPA Journal is a bimonthly magazine which
deals with the protection of the nation's land,
air, and water resources. A subscription (EPAJ)
is $8/year. Call GPO at (202) 783-3238.
AIRSLetter, by EPA's National Air Data
Branch, is published quarterly to keep Aero-
metric Information Retrieval System (AIRS)
users informed of current and future initia-
tives. There is no charge for AIRS users. To
get on the mailing list, write: AIRSLetter
Editor, National Air Data Branch (MD-14),
EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711.
Directory of EPA/State Contacts by Specialty
(EPA/540/8-90/002, February 1990), by EPA's
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency
Response, presents information on personnel
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -39
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who provide technical, legal, administrative,
and financial expertise in support of
Superfund activities. Copies may be
requested from EPIC at (513) 569-7980.
EPA Headquarters Telephone > Directory—
WITS Edition August 1991 (055-000-00379-
3) is $12 from GPO at (202) 783-3238.
EPA Organization and Functions Manual,
by EPA's Office of Administration, outlines
EPA organizational structures and responsi-
bilities to the division level. A free copy may
be obtained from EPA Distribution by
calling (202) 260-2118.
EPA Regulatory Agenda, by EPA's Informa-
tion and Regulatory Systems Division, pro-
vides scientific information on the status of
regulations that are under development, revi-
sion, and review at the Agency. It is published
in April and October. To be on the mailing list
for this free publication, call (202) 260-5480.
Glossary of Environmental Terms andAcro-
nymList (December 1989,19K-1000)by EPA's
Office of Public Affairs, gives the user a gen-
eral sense of what some commonly used terms
and phrases mean in relatively non-technical
language. A free copy may be obtained from
the PIC by calling (202) 260-7751.
IRM Strategic Plan 1991-1995, by EPA's
Office of Administration and Resources
Management (OARM), defines the mission of
EPA's IRM program and establishes the
resource needs and responsibilities generally
required to achieve that mission. For a copy,
contact: OIRM/IMSD, U.S. EPA (PM-21 ID),
401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460.
Pollution Prevention News, EPA's Office of
Pollution Prevention, is a monthly publi-
cation on pollution prevention. To receive a
complimentary subscription, write: Pollution
Prevention News, U.S. EPA (PM-222B), 401
M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460.
Preserving Our Future Today— Your Guide
to the United States Environmental Protec-
tion Agency is published by EPA's Office of
Communications and Public Affairs. A copy
can be obtained from the PIC by calling (202)
260-7751.
Tech Trends, by EPA's Technology Innova-
tion Office, is published five times per year. It
is the innovative technologies journal for
Superfund removals and remedial actions and
RCRA corrective actions. To receive a com-
plimentary subscription, write: Tech Trends
Mailing List, U.S. EPA (OS-HOW), 401 M
Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460.
TechnicalAssistance Directory (CERI-91-29)
by EPA ORD is available through EPIC at
(513) 569-7980.
Technical Information Packages (TIPs), by
EPA's Office of International Activities
(OIA), provides information on key environ-
mental issues for international distribution.
Each TIP explains the environmental issue,
the related environmental and health effects,
the standards and regulations, the technologies
for addressing the issue, and a complete cita-
tion for each of the documents included in the
TIP. In addition, each TIP includes a list of
EPA experts, a more extensive bibliography,
and contacts for access to existing databases
and training opportunities. For more informa-
tion, call OIA at (202) 260-4870.
Who's Who in EPA, by EPA's Office of
Administration, provides organizational
charts and listings of principal officers at the
Agency. It is updated on a yearly basis. A free
copy may be obtained from EPA Distribution
by calling (202) 260-2118.
40 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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¥
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INTRODUCTION
In addition to EPA, a number of other Federal government agencies protect human
health and the environment as a component of their overall missions. In fact, many
Federal organizations collect, use, and distribute environmental data in their daily activities,
particularly the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Energy, Interior, and Transportation.
Agencies throughout the Federal government have formed alliances to more effectively
share and use their environmental information. These organizations can provide access to a
wide variety of environmental data, publications, maps, and services. Some of these Federal
programs, resources, and committees are discussed in the following pages. They include:
• National Technical Information Service
• National Cartographic Center
• National Wetlands Inventory
• Council on Environmental Quality
• Federal Information Centers
• EPA/Federal Agency Environmental Roundtable
• Interagency multi-media programs.
States, however, are also encouraged to pursue other sources of information available through
the U.S. Government's Executive and Legislative Branches, such as the Library of Congress
and various Congressional organizations.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 41
-------
ACCESS TO
INFORMATION
The Federal government develops, collects, and distributes a diverse array of
materials that contain environmental information. A number of Federal organizations
also provide assistance in accessing environmental information sources. Some of these
national information resources are described in the following pages.
NATIONAL TECHNICAL INFORMATION SERVICE
The National Technical Information
Service (NTIS) provides access to U.S. and
foreign government-sponsored research
and development results. NTIS is a pri-
mary source for government scientific and
technical information, and they have a catalog
of the products and services offered. NTIS:
• Announces summaries of completed
and ongoing U.S. and foreign
government-sponsored research
and development and engineering
activities.
• Provides the complete technical
reports for most of these results.
• Manages the Federal Computer Prod-
ucts Center, which provides access
to software, data files, and databases
produced by Federal agencies.
• Manages the Center for the Utiliza-
tion of Federal Technology, which
runs the most active inventions
licensing program in the U.S. Gov-
ernment.
• Offers U.S. firms access to foreign
government research and engineer-
ing programs. NTIS is the lead U.S.
Government agency in the exchange
of technical information.
Costs vary according to the product or
service in question. For more informa-
tion, call or write the NTIS at:
(800) 553-NTIS
National Technical Information
Service
U.S. Department of Commerce
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
42 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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NATIONAL CARTOGRAPHIC CENTER
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA)/Soil Conservation Service's National
Cartographic Center offers a variety of ser-
vices and information. The Center responds to
requests for national soils geographic data-
bases and their interpretative attribute files, as
well as GIS resource data and maps.
For information, contact:
(817)334-5292 or (817)334-5559
National Cartographic Center
Soil Conservation Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
P.O. Box 6567
Fort Worth, Texas 761 15
NATIONAL WETLANDS INVENTORY
The U.S. Department of Interior/Fish
and Wildlife Service's National Wetlands
Inventory characterizes the wetland
resources in the U.S. It provides status and
trend information. A geo-referenced wetland
database using geographic information
system technologies is under development.
To obtain National Wetlands Inventory
maps, contact:
(800) USA-MAPS
To obtain further information on the
National Wetlands Inventory, contact:
(813)893-3624
National Wetlands Inventory
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
9720 Executive Center Drive
Monroe Building, Suite 101
St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2440
GENERAL ACCOUNTING OFFICE
The General Accounting Office (GAO)
evaluates the activities of Federal
departments, agencies, and organizations.
Many assessments have been conducted to
address environmental programs,
activities and issues. Some parties, including
State officials, may receive GAO reports free
of charge.
To obtain copies of GAO reports or a list of
available reports, contact:
(202)275-6241
Document Handling and Information
Services Facility
U.S. GAO
P.O. Box 60 15
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -43
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GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
The Government Printing Office (GPO)
prints and binds publications issued from
Congress and the departments and agencies of
the Federal government. The GPO sells
publications through mail orders and
government bookstores. It also administers
the depository library program through
which selected government publications are
made available in libraries throughout the
country. GPO has catalogs of new or popular
publications which are available through them.
The cost depends upon the publication.
For orders and inquiries, contact:
(202)783-3238
Superintendent of Documents
Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402
COUNCIL ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
The Council on Environmental Quality
(CEQ), part of the Executive Office of the
President, collects environmental statistics from
across Federal agencies and publishes them as
a section of its annual Environmental Quality
report and also in periodic environmental
trends publications. The Environmental
Quality report is available from CEQ, GPO,
and NTIS.
For more information on CEQ activities or
publications, contact:
(202) 395-5750
Council on Environmental Quality
722 Jackson Place NW
Washington, DC 20503
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FEDERAL INFORMATION CENTERS
The General Services Administration
(GSA) has established Federal Information
Centers (FICs) throughout the United States
to assist the public in locating particular
Federal agencies or individuals to address
their specific concerns. Since FICs can be
accessed via local telephone service, refer to
the government listings in the telephone
directory for the nearest metropolitan area.
|[_J_J| References
Two of the more commonly referenced GPO publications are the Federal
Register and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). The Federal Register
publicizes proposed rules written by Federal agencies along with notices of public
hearings. It is published every government business day. A yearly subscription to
the paperback version (FR) is $340. The CFR codifies final regulations having
general applicability and legal effect which have previously appeared in the
Federal Register. The various books in this series (CFR91) are issued irregularly,
and a yearly subscription to paperback books is $620. Both are available through
GPO at the address on the previous page. Both of these publications are also
available at many libraries (general public as well as EPA).
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 45
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ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF
FEDERAL ASSISTANCE
Since a variety of governmental organizations have environmental responsibilities, there
are numerous sources of information available. This section does not present a
comprehensive listing of these sources, but rather illustrates the types of available resources.
GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
A number of interagency groups and
organizations have been formed to
more effectively address environmental
issues and activities. These groups share
information and forge cooperative environ-
mental solutions to complex problems.
FEDERAL GEOGRAPHIC DATA COMMITTEE
The Federal Geographic Data Committee,
established under the authority of OMB Circu-
lar A-16, promotes the coordinated develop-
ment, use, sharing, and dissemination of sur-
veying, mapping, and related spatial data. The
Committee is comprised of representatives
from fourteen Federal departments and inde-
pendent agencies. Subcommittees have been
formed to coordinate several categories of
data, including base cartographic, cadastral,
cultural and demographic, geodetic, geologic,
ground transportation, soils, vegetation, and
wetlands. In addition, workgroups have been
established to work on issues common to all
data categories, such as standards, technology,
and liaison to the non-Federal community,
including States, localities, the private sector,
and academia. The Committee publishes the
FGD Newsletter, which describes its efforts.
To obtain more information, contact:
(703)648-4533
Executive Secretary
Federal Geographic Data Committee
U.S. Geological Survey
590 National Center
Reston, Virginia 22092
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EPA/FEDERAL AGENCY ENVIRONMENTAL ROUNDTABLE
The EPA/Federal Agency Environmental
Roundtable is a standing Federal agency
group, with members from approximately fifty
individual Federal departments or agencies,
that meets on a regular basis to exchange infor-
mation concerning existing or pending EPA
policy, strategy, standards, and regulations.
The Roundtable is convened under author-
ity of Executive Order 12088, issued by the
President. Section 1-2 requires that "each
Executive agency shall consult with the
Administrator and with State, interstate, and
local agencies concerning the best techniques
and methods available for the prevention,
control, and abatement of environmental pol-
lution," and Section 1-3 indicates that "the
Administrator shall provide technical advice
and assistance to Executive agencies in order
to ensure their cost-effective and timely com-
pliance with applicable pollution control
standards." The Environmental Roundtable is
convened to partially fulfill this consultative
and technical assistance mandate between EPA
and the other Federal agencies.
The Roundtable also provides a forum for
the exchange of information on pollution
prevention, abatement, or control techniques
utilized in all environmental programs, as well
as successful hazardous waste cleanup
technologies attempted by Federal agencies
throughout the nation.
For further information, contact:
(202)260-5908
Office of Federal Facilities
Enforcement (OE-2261)
U.S. EPA
40 1M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
REGION 5 ROUNDTABLE ON INTERAGENCY COOPERATION
EPA Region 5 has recently begun to form
an interagency roundtable to address ecosys-
tems management issues in the Midwest.
Since there are many Federal, State, and local
agencies and other public groups involved in
ecosystems information, research, education,
and management, this group will seek to adopt
a cooperative interagency approach to facili-
tate the accomplishment of mutual goals. Ini-
tial participants included representatives from
the U.S. Forest Service, National Parks Ser-
vice, International Joint Commission, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Bureau
of Land Management (BLM), EPA Great
Lakes National Program Office and EPA
Region 5, Illinois Natural History Survey,
Illinois Department of Conservation,
Michigan Department of Natural Resources,
and Michigan State University.
The EPA Region 5 Roundtable on Inter-
agency Cooperation in ecosystems intends to
meet on a semi-annual basis beginning with a
meeting on November 12-14, 1991. The first
action to be undertaken will be to create staff-
level workgroups and to develop an annual
plan for work among agencies.
For more information, contact:
(312)353-6148
Mr. Louis Blume
Planning and Management Division
U.S. EPA Region 5
77 W. Jackson Boulevard (MB-19J)
Chicago, Illinois 60604
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 47
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The Federal and State governments have
undertaken many large, multi-media
projects to restore environmental health to our
nation's water bodies. These projects have in
common an ecosystem approach to solving
environmental problems; the approaches are
comprehensive and dependent on the active
participation of a very large group of govern-
ment agencies and private organizations.
Examples of four multi-media, geographic-
specific projects—Chesapeake Bay, Puget
Sound, Great Lakes, and Gulf of Mexico—are
highlighted in the following discussion.
CHESAPEAKE BAY
The Chesapeake Bay is the country's larg-
est estuary— efforts to restore this area are of
national significance. The Bay program is
making progress through the efforts of various
Federal and State agencies, special interest
organizations, and citizen advocate groups.
The success of this program is dependent on a
cooperative, multi-media arrangement.
In addition to EPA and environmental
agencies in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia,
and the District of Columbia, many other
agencies are active in the restoration of the
Chesapeake Bay program by formal agree-
ment, including the Soil Conservation Ser-
vice, the Forest Service, the USDA, the Fish
and Wildlife Service, USGS, and NOAA.
Other participants without agreements include
the National Park Service, National Highway
Administration, and the Coast Guard. Citizens
groups include the Alliance for the Chesapeake
Bay and the Chesapeake Executive Council's
Citizen Advisory Committee.
EPA established a Chesapeake Bay Liai-
son Office to coordinate the cleanup initiatives
of State and Federal agencies under the overall
direction of the Chesapeake Executive Coun-
cil. The Liaison Office maintains a computer
center that stores monitoring data; reviews,
processes, and analyzes that data; and builds
mathematical models to estimate pollution
loads and to project the impact of various
control alternatives on Bay water quality.
For more information about the Bay
program, scheduled meetings, or other current
activities, call the Chesapeake Regional
Information Service at:
1-(800)662-CRIS
For more information about the EPA's
role in the Bay restoration, call or write:
(800)523-2281
(301) 267-0061
Chesapeake Bay Program
U.S. EPA
Annapolis City Marina
410 Severn Avenue, Suite 109
Annapolis, MD 21403
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PUGET SOUND
The Puget Sound Estuary Program was
established in 1985 by EPA and the Washing-
ton Department of Ecology. The program's
primary objective is to minimize contamina-
tion of Puget Sound and to protect its living
resources. One of the key program ele-
ments is its "urban bay approach," which
focuses on site-specific pollution control
measures within the well-defined bodies of
water and associated drainage basins.
The strength of the urban bay approach
comes from its geographic focus, use of action
teams in the field, and use of available data to
minimize wasteful or redundant studies and
maximize immediate action. The efficiency of
existing contaminant control programs is
maximized by focusing multi-agency actions
on prioritized contaminated sites.
Over 450 different groups participate
in the Puget Sound program. Organizations
include: NOAA, the National Marine
Fisheries Service, and the Municipality of
Metropolitan Seattle. A regional urban
bay program serves as a focal point for
administrating the various programs.
For more information on the Puget Sound
program, call or write:
(206) 493-9300 or
l-(800)-54-SOUND
Puget Sound Water Quality Authority
Mail Stop PV15
P.O. Box 40900
Olympia, WA 98504-0900
GREAT LAKES
In 1978, the Great Lakes National Pro-
gram Office (GLNPO) was created to oversee
the United States' fulfillment of its obligations
under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agree-
ment with Canada. The goal of the Water
Quality Agreement is to "restore and maintain
the physical, chemical, and biological integrity
of the Great Lakes Basin ecosystem." This
emphasis on a comprehensive ecosystem
approach to water quality management is
the cornerstone of GLNPO's operations.
GLNPO's ecosystem approach to envi-
ronmental management resulted from a grow-
ing understanding of the many inter-related and
inter-dependent factors that govern the eco-
logical health of estuary systems. The ecosys-
tem approach has dictated the involvement and
cooperation of many different organizations.
It is GLNPO's task to bring together the
many different U.S. programs and provide a
forum for them to work together to achieve
relationships that promote multi-media solu-
tions to environmental problems. In addition to
EPA, GLNPO coordinates with NOAA, USGS,
the Army Corps of Engineers, the Fish and
Wildlife Service, the Soil Conservation Ser-
vice, the Coast Guard, Environment Canada,
the Ontario Provincial Government, and the
International Joint Commission.
For more information on the Great Lakes
project, call or write:
(312)353-2117
Great Lakes National Program Office
9th Floor
77 West Jackson Boulevard, (G-9J)
Chicago, IL 60604
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GULF OF MEXICO
In August of 1988, the Gulf of Mexico
Program was established in response to signs
of serious long-term environmental damage
appearing throughout the marine ecosystem of
"America's Sea." The main purpose of the
Program was to develop and implement a
management strategy aimed at protecting,
restoring, and maintaining the health and
productivity of the Gulf.
Because of the complexity and serious-
ness of the problems in the Gulf, a number of
government agencies and private organiza-
tions have joined together to work on solu-
tions. The Gulf of Mexico Program relies on
the support of many of the same organizations
that are involved with the Great Lakes, Chesa-
peake Bay, and Puget Sound Programs.
The Gulf Program distributes the informa-
tion it collects to the scientific community,
legislative bodies, policy makers, resource
managers, public interest groups, industry,
and the public. This cooperative process has
proven effective in efforts to educate and
inform organizations involved with the resto-
ration of the Gulf ecosystem.
The Gulf Program maintains an electronic
bulletin board, accessible by anyone with a
computer and modem. The system allows
users to search its Catalog of Environmental
Data Bases and a Directory of Gulf Specialists.
The catalog and directory help users locate
information such as organizations, reference
documents, databases, information sources, and
points of contact.
For more information on the Gulf of Mexico
Program, call or write:
(601) 688-3726
The Gulf of Mexico Program Office
Building 1103, Room 202
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-6000
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here are numerous publications about the relationship between the Federal
J_L government and the environment. It is far beyond the scope of this document to catalog
all of them. Instead, this section should be viewed as providing examples of the types of
reference documents available, both from the government itself and from commercial entities.
The Guide to Key Environmental Statistics in
the U.S. Government is a valuable resource
guide. This document provides information on
the U.S. government programs that develop
and distribute key environmental statistics.
The document addresses the following types
of statistics:
° Environmental pressures, such as
energy, mining, agriculture, manu-
facturing, and transportation
° Environmental quality, such as ambi-
ent air and water quality, toxic con-
tamination, and soil erosion
0 Human and institutional responses to
environmental problems, such as
governmental and industrial activi-
ties and expenditures to prevent or
control pollution.
The information in the guide is organized by
Federal department and agency, and a sepa-
rate record is presented for each of the 76
statistical programs. Each record includes
background information, statistical coverage,
data collection methods and frequency,
geographic coverage, contacts, recent publi-
cations, and availability of data bases. In addi-
tion, the guide contains a key word index and an
index of databases. This guide is available in
hard copy as well as on disk.
The Guide was originally published in
April 1990 by the World Resources Institute.
The document is undergoing extensive
revisions and an updated version was made
available in the spring of 1992. For orders and
inquiries, contact:
(202) 260-3726
Center for Environmental Statistics
Office of Policy, Planning and
Evaluation
U.S. EPA (PM-223)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
MATERIAL BELONGS TO:'
US EPA TOXICS LIBRARY
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
(202) 260-3944
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 51
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TheFederallRMDirectory (February 1991) is
developed by the Interagency Committee on
Information Resources Management (IAC/
IRM) to facilitate and encourage the sharing of
IRM information among the IAC/IRM mem-
bers and other Federal IRM managers. The
document identifies IRM contacts throughout
the Federal government. Copies can be
obtained by contacting GSA at:
(202) 501-2426
Information Resources Management
Service (IRMS-KAP)
U.S. General Services Administration
18th & F Street, NW
Washington, DC 20405
The Federal Executive Directory supplies
complete contact information for more than
32,500 key officials in the Executive Office of
the President, Cabinet Departments, major
Federal administrative agencies, and the U.S.
Congress. It is published every two months,
and a one-year subscription is $155. The Fed-
eral Regional Executive Directory provides
complete contact information on field offices
of Federal government agencies and de-
partments. It is published semi-annually, and
a one-year subscription is $110.
(202) 333-8620
Carroll Publishing Company
1058 Thomas Jefferson Street, NW
Washington, DC 20007
The Directory of Environmental Information
Sources, 3rd Edition provides sources for
obtaining Federal and State government infor-
mation (Docketroom, Congressional Desk,
Legislative Information Office, Public Infor-
mation Office, and EPA/OSHA offices); pro-
fessional and trade organizations and associa-
tions, and environmental publications and
databases. For each entry, itincludes addresses,
phone numbers, descriptive paragraphs, and
pricing and membership information where
applicable. The cost is $69. The 1992-1993
Environmental Telephone Directory covers
U.S. Senators and Representatives and their
environmental aides, U.S. Senate and House
committees and subcommittees dealing with
environmental issues, EPA, other Federal and
executive agencies dealing with the environ-
ment, and State environmental agencies. The
cost is $59.
(301) 921-2323
Government Institutes, Inc.
4 Research Place, Suite 200
Rockville, MD 20850
The Federal Yellow Book has listings of
Administrators and top staff aides in the
Executive Office of the President/Office of the
Vice President, the 14 Cabinet-level Federal
departments, more than 60 independent Fed-
eral agencies, regional offices of selected Fed-
eral departments and agencies, and Federal
Information Centers in 72 cities. It is published
quarterly, and a one-year subscription is $175.
The Congressional Yellow Book has complete
listings of Congressional leadership: Senators,
Representatives, key specialists, and commit-
tee and subcommittee staff. It is published
quarterly, and a one-year subscription is $175.
(212) 627-4140
Monitor Publishing Company
104 Fifth Avenue, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10011
52 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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INTRODUCTION
Certain associations, conferences, and councils are committed to strengthening
the bond and increasing the coordination of local, State, and Federal government
activities. Their aim is to keep abreast of issues that may affect their constituents and to
influence environmental policy and funding. Members have found strength in numbers by
having one or more associations represent and voice their collective interests. These respected
groups can elevate, present, and act on local, State, and Federal concerns, including issues
related to information management. The purpose of Part III is to point out the types of
assistance available through the following types of organizations:
• State organizations
• Native American organizations
• Environmental special interest groups.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE -53
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STATE ORGANIZATIONS
Several organizations have been established to promote the concerns and interests
of States nationwide, including environmental issues. These entities maintain ongoing
communications with States, as well as with Federal government representatives, to ensure that
issues are identified and addressed. Such organizations also collect environmental
data and seek to improve intergovernmental information sharing. Some of the most
active and well represented State organizations are briefly described in the following pages.
NATIONAL GOVERNORS' ASSOCIATION
The National Governors' Association
(NGA) includes the governors of the nation's
fifty States, its commonwealths, and territo-
ries. Through NGA, governors work together
to deal with issues of public policy and gover-
nance. NGA's mission is to provide a biparti-
san forum to help shape and implement
national policy and to solve State problems.
The NGA is involved with environmental
concerns and has focused on building informa-
tion partnerships, developing hazardous waste
generation policies, and addressing environ-
mental management issues. Recent NGA envi-
ronmental initiatives have included working
with the Federal government to develop regu-
lations and policies regarding cleanup of haz-
ardous waste sites and clean air legislation.
NGA's Information Management
Program Steering Committee is involved
with improving information sharing and
using integrated data more effectively in
decision-making. These activities are
coordinated with several Federal agencies
and industry representatives.
NGA offers nearly twenty energy and
environment-specific publications and fre-
quently sponsors national conferences on
environmental issues, including an annual
conference on information management. For
further information, call or write:
(202) 624-5300
National Governors' Association
Hall of the States
444 North Capitol Street, Suite 250
Washington, DC 20001
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COUNCIL OF STATE GOVERNMENTS
The Council of State Governments (CSG)
works to strengthen State governments by
promoting intergovernmental cooperation;
collecting, processing, generating, and dis-
seminating information needed by States;
and serving as a catalyst and representa-
tive on issues and opportunities affecting the
States. Among the services that CSG offers
are:
• Providing staff services to organiza-
tions of State officials in various
fields of activity
• Arranging conferences, offering
research, surveys, and data search
to the private sector
• Operating a computerized library
and resource database
• Providing a telecommunication-
based inquiry service.
CSG's Center for the Environment and
Natural Resources was established to assist
State leaders in developing and improving
environmental policy. Recently, the Center
has also been charged with identifying new
issues in science and technology that will
affect State environmental policy. The Center
is guided by a steering committee comprised
of State legislators, attorneys general, and
executive branch officials from all regions
of the nation.
CSG recent and current research topics
include: environmental management, solid
waste, drinking water systems, medical waste
management, wastewater clean-up, and
geographic information activities. CSG's
publication list includes over twenty
environment-specific books. One which may
be of particular interest is The State Geographic
Information Activities Compendium (#C-002-
91) which offers a comprehensive look at the
coordination and implementation of hundreds
of State GIS programs nationwide. The cost is
approximately $79. Order the compendium by
calling (800) 800-1910. For further information
on CSG, call or write:
(606)231-1939
Council of State Governments
P.O. Box 11910
3572 Iron Works Pike
Lexington, KY 40578
|_J_J References
Information on these organizations and others referenced in this section were
obtained from the Encyclopedia of Associations: National Organizations of the
U.S. and the Encyclopedia of Associations: Regional, State and Local
Organizations, which are available through most EPA Regional, State, college
and university, and local libraries.
SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE - 55
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NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE LEGISLATURES
National Conference of State Legislatures
(NCSL) is a national bipartisan organization of
State legislators and legislative staff which
ensures States a strong, cohesive voice in the
Federal decision-making process and fosters
interstate communication and cooperation.
NCSL provides research, technical assistance,
and a forum for policy-makers to exchange
ideas on the most pressing State issues.
NCSL is also an effective and respected rep-
resentative for the interests of State govern-
ments before Congress and Federal agencies.
NCSL also disseminates information on
environmental issues. Its publication list
includes books on solid waste management,
recycling, global climate, groundwater leg-
islation, and other environmental information.
NCSL's State-specific services include:
responses to information requests, technical
assistance, publications, conferences, semi-
nars, training sessions, and videotapes.
NCSL's State-Federal Assembly includes a
steering committee on the environment and
natural resources. The Assembly informs leg-
islators of developments in State-Federal rela-
tions. For further information, call or write:
(202)624-5400
National Conference of State
Legislatures
444 North Capitol Street, NW
Suite 500
Washington, DC 20001
Note: The NGA, NCSL, and CSG have
recently formed a State Information Policy
Consortium. The primary goal of the consor-
tium is to provide a forum where State and
Federal officials may meet to discuss inter-
governmental information resources manage-
ment problems. This consortium hopes to
strengthen the Federal-State partnership as
outlined in recently introduced legislation
such as the Federal Information Resources
Act(§1044) and OMB's revision of Circu-
lar A-130. Since NGA, NCSL, and CSG were
in the process of establishing memoranda
of understanding at the time of this document's
publication, more information on this new
consortium is not available.
OTHER STATE ORGANIZATIONS
Other State organizations also collect
data which may be vital to EPA and other
organizations. Many of these organizations
are affiliated with the NGA, NCSL, and
CSG. They include:
• The Association of State and Interstate
Water Pollution Control Administra-
tors (ASIWPCA) represents the Admin-
istrators of State and interstate govern-
mental agencies legally responsible for
prevention, abatement, and control of
water pollution. ASIWPCA promotes the
coordination among State agencies and
those of the EPA, Congress, and other
Federal agencies. Call or write:
(202) 624-7782
ASIWPCA
444 North Capitol Street, NW
Suite 330
Washington, DC 20001
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The Association of State Drinking
Water Administrators represents the
collective interests of State drinking
water programs and presents the views of
States to Congress, EPA, and other profes-
sional organizations. Call or write:
(703)524-2428
ASDWA
1911 North Fort Meyer Drive
Arlington, VA 22209
The Association of State and Territorial
Solid Waste Management Officials
consists of directors and support staff of
State and territorial solid and hazardous
waste. Call or write:
(202)624-5828
ASTSWMO
444 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Interstate Conference on Water Prob-
lems consists of State and regional agen-
cies, non-profit organizations, and univer-
sities concerned with conservation, devel-
opment, and administration of water and
land-related resources. Call or write:
(612)223-5828
ICWP
415 Hamm Building
408 Saint Peter Street
St. Paul, MN 55 102
State and Territorial Air Pollution
Program Administrators (STAPPA)
aims to improve the effectiveness of
State and local air pollution control
programs and to coordinate the activities
of State and local officials in this field.
STAPPA headquarters serves as liaison
with EPA, Congress, industrial organi-
zations, environmental organizations,
and others who are interested in protecting
air resources. Call or write:
(202) 624-7864
STAPPA
444 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
The Council of Governors' Policy
Advisors provides technical expertise,
analysis, and information to further the
objectives and effectiveness of NGA
representing the interests of State
governments. Call or write:
(202) 624-5386
CGPA
400 North Capitol Street, NW
Suite 285
Washington, DC 20001
The National Association of State Bud-
get Officers serves as a liaison between
States and the Federal government to pro-
mote intergovernmental cooperation. Their
Committee on Financial Management,
Systems, and Data Reporting identifies,
evaluates, and provides information on
systems, techniques, and mechanisms for
analysis, evaluation, and management of
government programs. Call or write:
(202) 624-5382
NASBO
400 North Capitol Street, NW
Suite 295
Washington, DC 20001
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NATIVE AMERICAN
ORGANIZATIONS
Certain Native American organizations influence environmental policies and directions.
These organizations are also important because, over the next few years, some
federally recognized tribal entities will be involved in an EPA program known as
"Treatment as States." Tribes that qualify will be required to adhere to many of the
environmental laws that govern States. With this new status, those tribes will, by law,
provide environmental data to EPA. A few of the organizations that represent Native
Americans are described in this section.
COUNCIL OF ENERGY RESOURCE TRIBES
The Council of Energy Resource Tribes
(CERT) is one of the most environmentally
active Native American organizations.
CERT's purpose is to promote the general
welfare of members through the protection,
conservation, control, and prudent manage-
ment of their oil, coal, natural gas, and other
resources. CERT provides on-site technical
assistance to tribes in all aspects of energy
resource management.
Protecting the environment is a funda-
mental goal of CERT. This information helps
these leaders make well-informed deci-
sions— decisions which create a healthy
balance between prospering economies and
caring for air, land, water, wildlife, and
people.
CERT's Tribal Environmental Insti-
tute offers a variety of educational work-
shops. Topics include: tribal ownership and
operation of public water systems, solid
and hazardous waste disposal and manage-
ment, water quality, and hazardous and
radioactive waste transportation. CERT also
sponsors two EPA intern programs to foster
environmental education for tribes. CERT's
environmental specialists visit reserva-
tions to provide technical assistance, con-
duct needs analyses, and develop water qual-
ity guides.
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CERT also has a non-profit subsidiary
called CERT Technical Services Corpo-
ration (CERT TSC), which was formed to
make the expertise and experience gained
from over 2,500 technical projects available
to both member and non-member tribes,
Indian organizations, government agencies,
and private entities or individuals. Services
are offered on a direct contract basis. CERT
TSC publishes a newsletter to disseminate
environmentally related information and
to enable those working in the field of tribal
environmental protection to share ideas,
solutions to problems, and approaches.
CERT TSC also publishes handbooks which
provide detailed guidance and examples for
preparing applications for primary enforce-
ment responsibility. For more information,
call or write:
(303) 297-2378
The Council of Energy Resource
Tribes
1999 Broadway, Suite 2600
Denver, CO 80202-5726
OTHER NATIVE AMERICAN ORGANIZATIONS
Some other environmentally active
Native American organizations include:
• The National Congress of American
Indians seeks to protect, conserve, and
develop Indian natural and human
resources; serve legislative interests of
Indian tribes; and improve health,
education, and economic conditions.
Call or write:
(202)546-9404
Native American Rights Fund pro-
vides legal counsel in the protection of
Indian lands and resources and main-
tains a National Indian Law Library.
Call or write:
(303) 447-8760
Native American Rights Fund
1506 Broadway
Boulder, CO 80302
NCAI
900 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20003
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ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIAL
INTEREST GROUPS
Special interest groups are an integral part of the environmental arena. These private
organizations provide additional insight into environmental issues and concerns.
Many of these groups collect and share environmental data with State and Federal
agencies through formal and informal agreements. A few prominent groups are listed here.
ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE FUND
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is a
public interest organization of lawyers,
scientists, and economists dedicated to the
protection and improvement of environmental
quality and public health. EDF works
toward responsible reform of public policy
in the fields of toxic chemical regulation,
toxicology, radiation, air quality, energy,
water resources, agriculture, ozone depletion
and the greenhouse effect, wildlife, and
international environment. EDF initiates legal
actions and litigation in environmental
public service and education campaigns.
EDF promotes research, public edu-
cation, and administrative and legislative
action. The organization maintains an
Evironmental Information Exchange (EIE)
computerized service which provides State
and Federal environmental agencies access to
scientific, economic, legal, and regulatory
information. Although the role of the EIE
system is currently under review, it maintains
data gleaned from studies in toxics, solid
waste, and pollution prevention which has
been shared with several Federal agencies.
EDF studies are funded with Federal, State,
industry, and private grants. The findings of
these studies are available upon request. For
more information, call or write:
(212)505-2100
Environmental Defense Fund
257 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10010
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THE NATURE CONSERVANCY
The Nature Conservancy is dedicated to
the preservation of ecological diversity
through the protection of natural areas. The
Conservancy identifies ecologically signifi-
cant lands and protects them through gift, pur-
chase, and advice to government or private
agencies. The Conservancy also provides
long-term stewardship for one thousand con-
servancy-owned preserves and makes most
conservancy lands available on request for
nondestructive use by educational and scien-
tific organizations.
The Conservancy compiles statistics and
maintains a computerized National Heritage
Inventory (data on flora and fauna in the
U.S. and abroad). This inventory resides in
the Biological and Conservation Data Sys-
tem, a PC-based data management package
that facilitates the collection, distribution,
and exchange of information including sites,
land ownership parcels, managed areas, and
sources of information. This data can be ex-
ported to CIS (ARC/INFO ) or other data-
base applications.
The Conservancy has memoranda of
understanding in place with several govern-
ment agencies including the EPA, the Depart-
ment of Defense, the Forest Service, BLM,
and USGS. The Conservancy has a unique
way of establishing its Natural Heritage Pro-
grams and Conservation Data Centers — it
enters into a partnership with States and,
as the program develops, it is slowly trans-
ferred over to State management. So far, ap-
proximately 80% of the State programs have
been transferred. For more information,
call or write:
(703)841-5300
The Nature Conservancy
18 15 North Lynn Street
Arlington, VA 22209
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OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS
Many other environmental special inter-
est groups exist. Some of the more prominent
groups include:
• World Wildlife Fund and Conservation
Foundation recently merged, and are
now know as the World Wildlife
Fund. Together they seek to protect the
biological resources upon which human
well-being depends. Their activities are
scientifically based and support public
and private conservation agencies and
governments in carrying out projects
and services. For more information call
or write:
(202)293-4800
World Wildlife Fund
1250 Twenty-Fourth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037
National Audubon Society is interested
in ecology, energy, and the conservation
and restoration of natural resources with
emphasis on wildlife, wildlife habitats,
soil, water, and forests. The Society
conducts research programs to aid
endangered species, supports a force
of 35 wardens to patrol wildlife
sanctuaries, and produces educational
materials. Divisions include government
relations and science. Call or write:
(212)832-3200
National Audubon Society
950 3rd Avenue
New York, NY 10022
National Wildlife Federation (NWF)
is a federation of State and territorial
conservation organizations and asso-
ciate members. NWF encourages the
intelligent management of the life-
sustaining resources of the earth and
promotes a greater appreciation of these
resources, their community relationship,
and wise use. NWF also gives organiza-
tional and financial assistance to local
conservation projects. NWF sells an
extensive directory of conservation
organizations. Call or write:
(202) 797-6800
National Wildlife Federation
1400 Sixteenth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036-2266
Sierra Club is a group of individuals
concerned with nature and its interrela-
tionship with man. It strives to: protect
and conserve the natural resources of the
U.S. and world, undertake scientific and
educational studies concerning man's
environment and the natural ecosystems
of the world, and educate others about the
need to preserve and restore the quality of
the environment and the integrity of those
systems. Their committees include air
quality, hazardous materials, interna-
tional environment, solid waste, and
water resources. Call or write:
15s (415)776-2211
Sierra Club
730 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94 109
62 - SEDM's STATE RESOURCE GUIDE
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The National SEDM Program welcomes your comments on the State Resource
Guide. If you have more information, information which should be added, or general
feedback on the guide as a whole, we want to hear about it.
Thank you in advance for your input!
Date:
Telephone:
Name:
Organization:
Address:
City/State/Zip:
UPDATE INFORMATION
Name of Resource/Program:
New Entry:
Revision:
Page Number:
Description of Resource/Program (Attach any relevant information, brochures,
fliers, etc.):
Sponsoring Office (Program Office, Division, Branch):
Resource/Program Public Contact:
Telephone (including area code): Fax:
Email:
Address (include full mailing address, mail code, room number)
eOMMENISfcTOIHEL'RIUS IMRROVEfcTHE STA-TE RESOURGEIGUIDE
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xvEPA
Office of Information Resources Management (PM-21 ID)
United States Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
State/EPA Data Management Program
Office of Information Resources Management (PM-21 ID)
United States Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
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