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Reaional Operations
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July :; '
Regional Geographic Initiative Program:
A Small Grant Program with Big Results
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"The Regional Geographic Initiative Program: A Small Grant Program with Big
Results". This report demonstrates the tangible results that can be achieved when
community, state and federal partners work together toward a common goal. Millions of
dollars have been leveraged through these partnerships using the Regional Geographic
Initiative (RGI) Grant program as seed money.
Each Region contributed two projects as examples of the diversity of environmental
successes this program makes possible.
Additionally, every project is linked to an Agency strategic Goal(s) and Presidential/
Agency initiatives; demonstrating how the accomplishments of this program enable the
Agency to meet its goals/mission.
I think you will enjoy the descriptions of the RGI projects and applaud the
accomplishments. You will read about projects making a difference in communities
across the country. You will see the many partnerships the projects have generated,
helping to build bridges for future environmental work. And, you will see the RGI
funding and the amount the project was able to leverage, on average is 140%.
If you are interested in more detailed information on any project please feel free to
contact the Project Coordinator or Rochele Kadish, the RGI Manager, on my staff.
Frankee Greenberg, Director
Office of Regional Operations
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Introduction i
Region 1
City of Providence Vacant Lot Program 2
Hartford Environmental Justice Network 3
Region 2
Combatting Childhood Asthma in the South Bronx, NY 4
Contaminants in Fish and Shellfish Tissue in the Rarita Bay, NJ 5
Region 3
South-Southwest Philadelphia 6
Cheat River, PA Restoration 7
Region 4
Southern Appalachian Mountains Initiative (SAMI) 8
Tampa Bay Estuary Program - Atmospheric Deposition of Toxic Materials 9
Region 5
Sustainability Grant for Chagrin River Watershed 10
Shiawasee& Huron Headwaters Resource Preservation Project 11
Region 6
Healthy Environment / Healthy Children "E-Hazards: They're Out There ., 12
Ambient Air Monitoring in Pleasant Hill, Arkansas 13
Region 7
Kansas River Watershed Enhancement Initiative 14
Omaha Lead Coalition 15
Region 8
South Platte River Watershed, Colorado 16
Understanding the Benefits of River and Wetland Restoration in So. Dakota 17
Region 9
Environment Management Systems (EMS) Projects - Merit Partnership 18
Building Capacity for Land Trusts to Protect California Central Valley Wetlands 19
Region 10
Idaho Farmworker Empowerment Project 20
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative 21
Project by Agency Goals 22
Projects by Presidential and or Agency Initiatives 23
For Infernal EPA Use Only
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GPRA Goal
Presidential/Agency
initiative
Region 1
Kristi N. Rea
1 Congress St., Suite 1100
Boston, MA 02114-2023
617-918-1595
rea.kristi@epa.gov
Goal 4: Preventing Pollution
Goal 7: Expansion of
American's Right to Know
Livable Communities
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
Protecting Children's Health
FY 1998-$20,000
Area Description: The City of Providence is a major
commercial, financial, and industrial center, and has a
population of approximately 150,000. Providence is
located in southeastern New England, at the head of
Narragnasett Bay on the Atlantic sea coast.- In 1995,
EPA New England launched a pilot program called the
Urban Environmental Initiative (UEI) to target three
New England cities, including Providence, to address
environmental and public health problems in urban
areas.
Environmental Problems: Residents suffer from a
disproportionate level of environment and public
health risks. One in every three children has elevated
blood lead levels. Providence also contains nearly
4,000 vacant lots. Each vacant lot has illegal dumping
of litter and other solid and hazardous waste, serves as
a home for rats, and provides unsafe and potentially
dangerous conditions to children.
Goals:
Return vacant lots to beneficial use, eliminate
illegal dumping and residential exposure to
contamination and public health threats.
Prevent childhood lead poisoning through
education and community outreach and public
access to information.
Project Accomplishments: The UEI and its partners
have worked together since 1996 to achieve the
following accomplishments:
1997 Vacant Land Task Force Report. UEI and
over 70 community stakeholders worked together
to produce a set of comprehensive
recommendations to return Providence's 4,000
vacant lots to productive use.
Soil Sampling for Lead, UEI and EPA Lexington
Laboratory responded to our partners' request to
sample soil on targeted vacant lots for lead
poisoning. To date, EPA has sampled well over
100 lots and have shared this data with our partners
and with local residents through public meetings
Multi-lingual Education & Outreach
EPA, UEI, RI Department of Health, City of
Providence Department of Planning, and DARE
created and distributed multi-lingual fact sheets to
interested community residents outlining local
lead laws, what sampling results meant for
families and children, options for mitigating risk
through planting and gardening, and contact
information for community questions and
concerns.
Special Vacant Lot for $ I Program,
UEI, DARE, and the Providence Department of
Planning created a first-of-its kind policy for
qualified local residents to purchase vacant lots for
the cost of $1 in exchange for taking care of the
property. The Program has resulted in many
properties being transferred over to the public, so
residents can return the lots to productive and safe
use.
Partners:
Direct Action for Rights and Equality (DARE), Rhode
Island Department of Health, City of Providence,
Department of Planning and Development, City of
Providence, Office of Neighborhood Environmental,
Affairs, Southside Community Land Trust, Childhood
Lead Action Project, Brown University, Center for
Environmental Studies
Resources Leveraged: EPA soil-sampling for over
100 vacant lots, education and outreach materials,
$200,000 line-item budget request by the City of
Providence's Department of Planning and Develop-
ment to remediate lead-contaminated soil.
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Project Coordinator GPRA Goal
RG! Funding
Initiative
Region 1
Stacey Johnson
1 Congress St., Suite 1100
Boston, MA 02114-2023
617-918-1552
johnson.stacey@epa.gov
Goal 4: Preventing Pollution
Goal 7: Expansion of
American's Right to Know
Livable Communities
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
Protecting Children's Health
FY 1999-$35,000
Area Description: Hartford is the 8th poorest city in
the country and its mere 18.4 square miles are the
home to a regional landfill, sewage treatment plant,
sewage sludge incinerator, trash-to-energy incinerator,
and seven electrical generation jet engine turbines. In
1995, EPA New England launched a pilot program
called the Urban Environmental Initiative (UEI) to
target three New England cities, including Hartford, to
address environmental and public health problems.
Environmental Problems: Hartford residents suffer
from childhood lead poisoning, asthma, and other
chronic illnesses due to a wide variety of environmen-
tal hazards. The childhood lead poisoning rates in
Hartford are twice the state average. Hartford has the
highest reported prevalence of physician confirmed
asthma in the country at 41%. Childhood asthma is
the leading cause of school absenteeism and hospital-
ization.
Goal:
To restore and revitalize the environment of urban
neighborhoods and improve public health by
building local capacity to deal with problems and
leverage available technical and financial
resources to improve the quality of life for urban
residents.
To prevent childhood lead poisoning through
education and community outreach.
To reduce asthma and respiratory triggers
associated with indoor air quality in at risk
populations.
Project Accomplishments: The UEI and its partners
have worked together since 1995 to achieve the
following:
» Building Livable Communities, Prior to the UEI in
Hartford the involvement of grassroots leaders in
local environmental decision making was
practically nonexistent. The Hartford
Environmental Justice Network (HEJN)
coordinated community forums, workshops,
training and environmental health conferences
transferred information, skills and technology to
the communities. Today, Hartford residents are
more informed and participate in greater numbers
in local and regional efforts to safeguard and
improve the quality of the environment and the
public's health.
Increased Community Right to Know and
Public Participation, Work through the HEJN has
increased community representation and
participation in public legislative hearings. The
HEJN also tracked and demonstrated an increase
in the level of coverage of environmental justice
issues in Hartford's printed press.
Improved Environmental Leadership, HEJN
provided leadership development training sessions
and presented leadership awards for local environ
mental stewardship efforts. The First African-
American to be elected on the Green Party ticket
successfully ran on an environmental justice
platform.
Coordinated community-based action. The HEJN
in partnership with member organizations are
identifying major air polluters, such as diesel
trucks, that contribute to high levels of ozone and
other toxins in the airshed.
Partners:
ONE/CHANE, Inc., Building Parent Power,
Connecticut Coalition for Environmental Justice,
Hartford Areas Rally Together (HART), Southend
Neighborhood Action Project, North Hartford Seniors
in Action, Vecinos Unidos, Toxic Action Center
ResourcesXeveraged: ffiJK coordinated action. £;
leadiioi ewer'$12 M
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Project Coordinator GPRA Goa!
Initiative
Region 2
Rachel Chaput
290 Broadway, 28th Floor
New York, NY 10007-1866
212-637-4001
chaput.rachel @ epa.gov
Goal 4: Preventing Pollution
Goa! 7: Expansion of
American's Right to Know
Livable Communities
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
Protecting Children's Health
Environmental Justice
FY 1999-$240,000
Area Description: This project is being conducted
both in the Hunts Point area of the South Bronx, New
York, and East Harlem. Hunts Point is situated on a
peninsula of approximately four square miles bordered
by the Bronx River to the east and northeast, the East
river to the south, and the Bruckner Expressway to the
north and northwest. East Harlem is an area in Man-
hattan bounded by 96th Street on the lower end, Broad-
way on the west, the East River on the east, and 130th
Street on the north.
Environmental Problems: The South Bronx and East
Harlem have some of the highest rates of asthma in the
U.S. Despite city wide air pollution problems and
local traffic congestion, there is not much evidence
that ambient air quality is the root of the higher asthma
rates in this area. Therefore, this project focuses on
mitigating indoor environmental sources of asthma
triggers.
Goal: The goal of this project is to gain further
knowledge about effective environmental intervention
methods for asthma and to educate citizens about what
we know. Over the past few years, increasing atten-
tion has been given to addressing this crisis by trans-
lating research into action through combined interven-
tion/education studies. This project has the additional
benefit of reducing exposure of individuals to pesti-
cides in the indoor environment.
Project Accomplishments: This project has two
major activities:
« Montefiore Hospital: Seven families have been
recruited. Two went to the Safe House (S), three
were in the environmental intervention group (E),
and two were used as controls (C). Forced vital
capacity data points are available for two S children
and two E children. Both showed improvement,
as well as reduced visits to the emergency room
and reduced medication usage. Given that there is
no equivalent C data for this time period, it is
impossible to confidently state success, but a
realistic interpretation at this time is that the
intervention is probably working about as
expected.
Hunter College: The project has developed
protocols for building and apartment inspection,
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) pest proofing
and pesticide use. IPM inspection forms and
tabletop displays in English and Spanish were
developed. They recruited and trained two special
project teams, an IPM Intervention team and a
Survey team. IPM interventions have been
completed in 60 apartments, and these interven
tions have been highly successful. Evaluation
interviews have been completed in 20 of a 50-
apartment subset. Monitoring was done in all of
the garbage chutes in all four buildings.
Partners: Two main partners are Hunter College and
Montefiore Hospital. Additionally, Hunter College is
working with several other groups. The New York
City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has provided
guidance and support from their Community Relations
Office. The New York City Department of Health
(NYCDH) has provided educational supplies and
transportation. Also, the Tenant's Association for the
building where the project is taking place contributed
manpower and logistical assistance.
Resources Leveraged: Montefiore contributed
$43,000, the NYCHA contributed $5.0,000,-and
$50,000 was contributed by the NYCDH.
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Project Coordinator
in Fish and Shellfish Tissue in the Rarita Bay, NJ
GPRA Goal Presidential/Agency RG8 Funding
Initiative
Region 2
Darvene Adams
290 Broadway, 28th Floor
New York, NY 10007-1866
212-637-6700
adams.darvene@epa.gov
Goal 2: Clean & Safe Water
Safe Consumption of Fish
and Shellfish
Clean and Safe Water
Persistent Bidaccumulative
Toxics
FY 1999-$120,000
Area Description: The Raritan Bay is located in the
New York/New Jersey Harbor complex and receives
the outflow of New York City and central New
Jersey. The Bay also is an actively used commercial
and recreational fishing area. The New Jersey
Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
wants respond to requests from the Atlantic Coast
Shellfish Council and open portions of the bay to
commercial shell fishing since there are indications
that the shellfish are safe to eat from a bacteriologi-
cal standout. However, the State must ascertain
whether the levels of bioaccumulative toxics are
within levels appropriate for human consumption
before a decision can be made.
Environmental Problems: The watershed of the
Raritan Bay is highly industrialized and heavily
populated. Relocation of a major sewer outfall to
the ocean, coupled with improvement in effluent
discharges have led to water quality improvements
that may allow an area of the Harbor that historically
had extensive shellfish beds to be considered for
reopening of harvesting. However, the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA)
Mussel Watch studies from 1988 to 1992 found lead
levels mat were close to exceeding the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance allowances.
Since there is a potential for contamination from
industry, the State must ascertain whether the levels
of all toxics are within levels appropriate for human
consumption before a decision can be made.
Goal:
Provide quality data that will enable the State of
New Jersey to make a decision about the opening
of commercial shell fishing in Raritan Bay.
Project Accomplishments: Since the levels of
contaminants in shellfish can vary seasonally, the
program has been designed to collect samples from
each of the 4 seasons. Currently data have been
produced for the fall and winter seasons. FY 2000
RGI funds will be used to produce data for the
spring and summer seasons. After all the data are
received by the State of New Jersey, a decision will
be made whether or not to open the shellfish beds in
the bay to commercial harvesting.
Partners: Baymans Association. NJ Department of
Environmental Protection, NY/NJ Harbor Estuary
Program.
Resources Leveraged: $70,000 in contract support
for sample analysis was provided^by',a USEPA-OW
contract with Battelle. NJDEP provided sample
collection and data interpretation in the dollar
amount of $30,000.
For Internal EPA Use Only
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South-Southwest Philadelphia
GPRA Goal Presidential/Agency
Initiative
Region 3
Leonard Mangiarcina
1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-814-2753
mangiaracina.geonard @ epa.gov
Goal 7: Expansion of
Americans Right to Know
Livable Communities
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
FY 1995 - $20,000
FY 1996 - $40,000
Area Description: An environmental health risk
study was conducted by Johns Hopkins University in
two adjacent neighborhoods of South-Southwest
Philadelphia characterized by industrial facilities
located next to or nearby residential properties,
including public housing projects. The study area
covered 26 square miles.
Environmental Problems: In response to concerns
raised by residents over the proliferation of industrial
sites and the potential impact of environmental
contamination and pollution on their health, a study
was conducted. Within the study area there were: 1)
Superfund site; 2) 282 generators of hazardous
waste - 33 classified as large generators and the rest
small; 3) 23 sites with incidents of leaking under-
ground storage tanks; and 4) over 40 CERCLIS sites.
Nine facilities are required to report their releases
and transfers under the Toxic Release Inventory. In
addition, the neighborhoods are plagued by illegal
dumping of tires, appliances, construction debris,
etc. (often referred to as "short dumping").
Goals:
Evaluate environmental risk to residents and
provide a vehicle for government, industry, and
residents to cooperatively address environmental
health issues.
« Utilize a community-base approach to provide
residents and business with a basic understand
ing of toxicology, risk evaluation and the
assessment of a scientific report.
The methods used to accomplish this goal are:
1. Educate citizens about the environmental
status of their communities.
2, Enhance communication between citizens
and business with local governments.
3. Conduct air monitoring for carbon
monoxide, particulate and toxics.
4. Collect data on water monitoring, drinking
and industrial waste water.
5. Conduct file reviews of CERCLIS sites
within the study area.
Project Accomplishments:
Local and federal government developed a short
term air monitoring program.
Environmental health risk assessment report
presented to the impacted communities and local
businesses.
Four part educational program designed and
presented by Johns Hopkins University to the
impacted communities and local business based
on the report.
Partners:
City of Philadelphia Law and Health Departments,
City of Philadelphia Air Management Services
(AMS). Philadelphia Local Emergency Planning
Commission, Pennsylvania Department of
Environmental Protection
Resources Leveraged: $120,000 City of
Philadelphia}$60,000 Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental ^Protection
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Project Coordinator GPRA Goal
RGS Funding
Initiative
Region 3
Bernie Sarnoski
1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-814-5756
Sarnoski.bernie@epa.gov
Goal 2: Clean Water
Restore and Protect
Watersheds
Livable Communities
Ensuring Clean & Safe Water
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
FY1996- $80,000
FY 1997-$130,000
FY1998- $40,000
Area Description: The Cheat River flows 157
stream miles from its headwaters to the PA state line.
The headwaters contain some of the most pristine
streams in the State; however, the lower 20 miles are
so severely polluted by acid mine drainage (AMD)
that it is essentially dead. In 1995, the Cheat was
named as one of the top 10 endangered rivers in the
countiy by the American River Association and the
only river in Region III named in the top 10.
Environmental Problems: In April 1994, two
major deep mine blowouts were the impetus for
residents within the watershed to form an advocacy
group called the Friends of the Cheat (FOC).
Goals:
To restore, protect and promote the outstanding
natural qualities of the Cheat River Watershed.
8 The methods used to accomplish this goal are:
1. Thorough assessment of AMD sources in
identified tributaries of the watershed.
2. Design treatment structures and procedures to
remove the AMD impacts.
3. Construct the treatment structures.
4. Monitor the long term performance of the
structures to demonstrate the effectiveness.
Project Accomplishments:
97% of the acid and metal loads have been
reduced from the Severn Creek. A dam was
reconstructed in the area to accommodate the
excess flows. (Sovem Creek is a tributary of the
Big Sandy Creek which is a tributary of the
Cheat River.
o An anoxic limestone drain was installed by
Anker Energy on Green's Run, a tributary of the
Cheat River.
° Interpretative signs were placed in restored areas
to inform and educate visitors about the nature
and extent of the AMD problems and the costs of
the solutions. A nine minute video on the
project was produced.
Partners:
The Cheat River Watershed Restoration effort is a
multi-partnership effort among federal, state,
industry, and local groups, committed to
collaboratively work together and restore the
watershed.
Friends of the Cheat
West Virginia Rivers Coalition
Office of Surface Mining, Department of Interior
Anker Energy
WVDEP
WVDNR
USGS
Preston County Commission
US Fish and Wildlife
National Biological Survey
WVU College of Agriculture and Forestry
National Mine Lands Reclamation Center
Resources JLeveraged: IJie Friends of the Cheat
al^ng; with Aiiker Energy provided:;$2'0Q,000 for
.the cpinpletiori of.an AMD passive-treatment ;
project. - '''' . ' . ".>'" ." . ''.'.-.. .
For Internal EPA Use Only
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GPRA Goal
Region 4
Leslie C. Montgomery
61 Forsyth Street, SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-562-9088
montgomery.leslie @ epa.gov
GoaM: Clean Air
Improve Air Quality in Areas
that do not Meet NAAQS for
Ozone, PM and SO,
Clean Air Partnership
1998-$65,000
tion: The SAMI region is located
within the eight states of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky,
North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and
West Virginia. There are ten Clean Air Act Class I park
and wilderness areas in this region, including the Great
Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks. This
region contains a wide array of air quality related values
(AQRVs), such as forests, streams, spectacular vistas,
and plants and animals.
Environmental Problems: The forests and streams
support one of the most diverse collections of plant and
animal species. SAMI states are-experiencing
unprecedented population and economic growth.
Prevailing wind patterns transport pollutants over the
Appalachians from the urban areas of the Southeast, as
well as from emission sources in other parts of the
country. The mountains also experience frequent
episodes of stagnation, allowing air pollutants to remain
in the region for several days at a time. A decline in air
quality now impairs the natural beauty of the mountains
and threatens their diverse ecosystems. In turn, there are
concerns about how this decline may affect the tourism
economies of mountain communities.
Project Goals: SAMI is a broad-based, voluntary effort
striving to improve regional air quality and combat its
effects on the natural resources of the Southern Appala-
chian Mountains. Modeling the effects of air pollution
on streams, soils, forests and visibility, with particular
attention to the ten Class 1 national parks and wilderness
areas of the SAMI region is a major goal for SAMI.
SAMI will comprehensively address multiple pollutants
simultaneously in an integrated assessment. SAMI's
integrated assessment aims to link emissions, atmo-
spheric transport, and environmental effects of ozone,
fine particles (also called aerosols) and acid deposition
through air quality models. Additional analyses will
assess the costs of controls and the social and economic
consequences associated with various emission reduction
scenarios. These analyses will provide information that
decision makers can use in evaluating resource responses
to changes in emissions from mandated and voluntary
emission reduction scenarios.
Project Accomplishments:
SAMI emission inventories projecting future trends
based on current and proposed regulations, are
complete. Atmospheric modeling of several ozone
and acid deposition episodes is complete. SAMI's is
investigating fine particle levels across the Southern
Appalachian Mountains using modeling, and how
these fine particle levels contribute to regional haze.
° Phase I analyses of effects of concern are complete.
SAMI focused on specific sites for visibility and acid
deposition, and specific tree species for sensitivity to
ozone. Visibility analyses indicate that sulfates and
organic carbon are the largest contributors to fine
particle mass and degraded visibility. Sulfate par
tides, and to a lesser extent organic carbon particles,
attract water vapor in the atmosphere. Combined
with water vapor, these particles reduce visibility.
9 Phase I acid deposition analyses suggest that large
reductions in air pollutant exposures from 1990 levels
(i.e., as much as 50-70% reduction in deposition) may
be needed to protect the most sensitive Southern
Appalachian Mountain species and watersheds.
For ozone, SAMI's initial analyses suggest that, to
protect the most sensitive tree species, (e.g., black
cherry and tulip poplar) ozone levels would have to
be reduced substantially below current levels.
Interim reports summarizing SAMI's progress and
technical products were issued in April 1999 and May
2000. www.saminet.org
Partners: SAMI is a nonprofit organization comprising
more than 100 active federal, state, and local government
agencies, industries, environmental groups, academia and
concerned citizens.
Resources Leveraged: $1,840,0.00
8
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Tampa Bay Estuary Program - Atmospheric Deposition of Toxsc Materials
Project Coordinator GPRA Goal Presidential/Agency RGI Funding
Region 4
John Ackermann
61 Forsyth Street, SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-562-9019
ackermann.john @ epa.gov
Goal 1: Clean Air
Reduce Air Toxics
Improve Air Toxics Information
Clean Air Partnership
1999-$42,000
Project Area Description: Tampa Bay, Florida's largest
open-water estuary, has a water surface of almost 400
square miles. The Tampa Bay watershed extends north
of the Bay to the upper reaches of the Hillsborough
River, east to the headwaters of the Alafia River, and
south to Sarasota County. The watershed drains 2,300
square-miles of land and includes five counties, the cities
of Tampa and St. Petersburg and other urban areas. The
human population is over 2 million. The Tampa Bay
Estuary Program (TBEP) began as a National Estuary
Program in 1991, with the goals of assisting community
activities to understand, restore, and protect Tampa Bay.
Studies of human use, natural habitats, pollution and
other problems have grown to include evaluating pollu-
tion which is deposited from the air to the Bay waters and
to the watershed. Monitoring the deposition of air
pollutants to the Bay and watershed can help evaluate the
relative importance of air pollution reaching the Bay
compared to waterborne pollution, land uses, boating and
shipping.
Environmental Problems: Major concerns for the
estuary include pollutant loadings of nutrients and toxic
contaminants. Tampa Bay has some of the highest
measured levels of toxics among all US estuaries border-
ing the Gulf of Mexico. Contaminants of concern (COC)
have been identified based on sediment pollution concen-
trations that exceed guidelines. The COC include eight
metals (cadmium, copper, chromium, lead, mercury,
nickel, zinc and silver), eleven pesticides, polynuclear
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs). Initial research indicates that up to
90% of the mass loading of some toxic pollutants may
occur through atmospheric deposition. In comparison,
recent monitoring of atmospheric deposition of nutrients
indicates that 27% of the mass loading of nitrogen
compounds to the Bay come s through wet and dry
deposition. Other priority problems for TBEP include
water quality, maintaining natural resources, conflicting
uses, and degradation/restoration of habitats.
Project Goals: The TBEP is working to quantify
loadings of toxic materials from atmospheric deposition.
This project is among the first undertaken by an estuarine
community to quantitatively evaluate the atmospheric
contribution of toxic compounds to its waters. The
overall TBEP goals include conducting multi-media
studies, using the results for information-based planning
processes, and involving the community in making better
decisions and effectively utilizing resources.
Project Accomplishments:
A one-day workshop held in January 1999 provided
expert advice from federal, State of Florida, County
staff and other researchers.
TBEP's Gandy Bridge monitoring site has been
expanded and additional equipment purchased,
installed and tested for clean sampling of rainwater,
ambient gases and particles.
A comprehensive Quality Assurance Project Plan
was developed and approved - one of the first for
monitoring a wide array of toxics by a public agency.
This plan is available on the TBEP web site at
Contracts have been initiated with local scientists
from academia to oversee the study, begin analyses,
and develop a research-grade model for dry
deposition of particulates.
Monitoring of metals and semi-volatile organic
compounds every six days is underway. Sampling
and analyses will continue for a year, with periodic
data sharing and evaluation among the technical
advisory group.
Partners: The TBEP builds partnerships and consensus
from all parties involved, including federal, state, local
and county governments, local residents/citizens, fisher-
man, divers/swimmers, boaters, and private industry.
Reso,urces Leveraged: $ 160,000.ifrom;in-kind ,
services, loaned equipmerM^and'iabpratory analyses;
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Sustainability Grant for Chagrin River Watershed
Project Coordinator GPRA Goal
RGB Funding
Initiative
Region 5
Lyn Luttner
25089 Center Ridge Rd.
Westlake, Ohio 44145
440-250-1711
luttner.lyn@epa.gov
Goal 2: Clean Water
Restore and Protect
Watersheds
Livable Communities
Ensuring Clean & Safe Water
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
FY 1 997 - $34,597
Area Description: The Chagrin River Watershed is
located 15 to 30 miles east of Cleveland within the
Ohio counties of Lake, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and
Portage. Approximately 79 miles of the Chagrin are
classified as a Ohio Scenic River by the Ohio De-
partment of Natural Resources (ODNR). Most of
the designed area is within incorporated boundaries
and therefore ODNR does not have jurisdiction
under Ohio law.
Environmental Problems: The watershed is experi-
encing rapid development impacts and degradation
due to urban sprawl. Specifically, urban sprawl has
resulted in increased imperviousness with the result
increased runoff, erosion, and flooding. Because of
these environmental problems, communities up and
down the Chagrin banded together through the
Chagrin River Watershed Partners, (CRWP) to try
and do something about the impact changing land
use is having on the Chagrin River watershed.
Goals:
9 Provide technical support and the resources so
that local decision makers will have greater
awareness about how to minimize the impacts of
development, land use changes, and urban
sprawl on the Chagrin River watershed and its
ecosystem in a manner that assures a sustainable
future for people, plants, and animals.
CRWP is developing specific tools for local
decision makers consisting of developing model
ordinances and technical support information,
creating a local government self-assessment tool
for resource protection, hosting of workshops for
local decision makers, and preparing technical
and educational information on imperviousness
and applied preventive and remedial practices.
Project Accomplishments: The CRWP grant has
three major activities.
Subwatershed GIS Mapping and Imperiousness
Evaluation. The impervious cover technical work
was completed. A draft subwatershed map was
prepared and reviewed.
Model Subwatershed Build Out Case Study and
Workshop. GIS information required to complete
the build out analysis was obtained, and work
was initiated on drafting a self-assessment
evaluation form. Purdue University completed
all of the data analysis during the time period. A
draft of the community self-assessment form was
prepared and reviewed.
Model Ordinances Development for
Sustainability and Workshops, A comprehensive
survey of current storm water practices by
member communities in the Chagrin River
watershed was completed. The draft Maryland
Stormwater Management Program regulations
were reviewed for potential application. A
preliminary draft Soil Erosion and Stormwater
Runoff Control Model Regulation was prepared
and distributed for review.
Partners:
CRWP worked with Natural Resource Conservation
Service, Ohio EPA, Ohio Department of Natural
Resources, Lake County Soil and Water
Conservation District Geauga County Soil and Wrater
Conservation District Solon City Engineer, Cleve-
land State University, Northeast Ohio Area-wide
Coordinating Agency
Resources -Leveraged: $19,654 from the CRWP, ;
CRWP .member communities contributed funds to
the project via their membership dues.
10
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Shiawasee
Project Coordinator
Region 5
Rose Ellison
931 1 Groh Road
Grosselle, Ml 48138
734-692-7689
ellison.rose@epa.gov
& Huron Headwaters Resource Preservation Project
GPRA Goal Presidential/Agency RGI Funding
UnStsatsve
Goal 2: Clean Water
Goal 4: Pollution Prevention
Goal 5: Better Waste
Management
Livable Communities FY 1999 -$75,000
Ensuring Clean & Safe Water
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
Environmental Justice
Area Description: Five townships and one village,
comprising 180 square miles of Oakland County, a
rapidly growing area northwest of Detroit. The area
contains numerous wetlands, including rare fens that
were found at Springfield Township's Long Lake
and Rose Township's Buckhorn Lake.
Problems: Southeast Michigan is expected to feel
the brunt of metro Detroit's growth during the next
two decades. A potential influx of 400,000 people
through 2020 may consume 200,000 acres of open
land and create competition for scarce natural re-
sources. The population of Oakland County is
expected to increase by over 25% by 2020.
Goals:
Produce a GIS data base of demographics,
development trends, floodplains, land cover, land
use, open space, river basins, wetlands, vegeta
tion, zoning, and other information.
Work with Michigan Natural Features Inventory
(MNFI) to identify, rank, and map habitats and
natural resources and produce a GIS map of
these features.
Identify and map areas of conflict between
resource protection and growth demands.
Identify existing planning and zoning tools being
used to preserve resource areas.
Develop model policies, ordinances, and guide
lines for communities to use in local planning
and zoning to protect critical natural resources.
Project Accomplishments:
The data base, habitat ranking, and planning and
zoning tools are completed.
MNFI identified and ranked 114 sites, and chose
eight for detailed inventory.
Springfield Township and partners prepared a
Natural Areas Conservation Framework Plan to
preserve natural areas, watersheds, and water
quality.
Springfield Township helped developers design
three new areas that set aside over 60% of the
land as permanent open space, using native
plants for landscaping and stormwater manage
ment, and providing conservation easements to a
local land conservancy for the most sensitive
natural features.
Several communities started incorporating the
planning tools into their land use planning
processes.
Land conservancies and local officials formed a
task force to protect valuable sites in the
Shiawassee River corridor in Springfield, Rose,
and Holly Townships.
Springfield Township used its data to get a major
natural gas pipeline re-routed to avoid valuable
wetlands.
' The 400-page final report will be available in
April 2000.
Partners: Oakland County, Townships of Highland,
Milford, Rose, Springfield, and White Lake; Village
of Milford Steering/Advisory Committees:
Huron-Clinton Metro Authority, Huron River
Watershed Council Developers Land Conservancy,
Michigan Natural Areas Council, Saginaw Bay
Watershed Initiative Realtors/property owners
Resources Leveraged:
$40,000 from -the 'Community .Foundation for
Southeastern Michigan, $25,000 from Oakland
.County, $85,000 from Oakland County in-kind as
'support staff
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Environment / Healthy Children "E-Hazards:They're Out There..."
GPRA Goal
Region 6
Paula Flores-Gregg
1445 Ross Avenue, suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202
214-665-8123
flores-gregg.paula@epa.gov
Goal 1: Clean Air
Goal 4: Pollution Prevention
Goal 7: Expansion of American's
Right-to-Know
Prottecting Children's Health FY 1998 - $50,000
Area Description: Children's video packet is being
used by elementary schools, environmental
educators, parenting classes, community groups,
family assistance centers, pediatricians, and public
libraries through out the nation.
Environmental Problems: Children are especially
vulnerable to the effects of environmental contami-
nants because they breathe more air, drink more
water and eat more food per pound of body weight
than adults. Children also face risks from a variety
of environmental hazards commonly found in their
homes, communities, and everyday surroundings.
Goals:
Heighten children's awareness of environmental
hazards in and near their homes.
Provide protective measures to reduce children's
risk.
Project Accomplishments: A group of cross-media
products has been developed to inform and educate
kids, parents, teachers, and caregivers about some of
the everyday environmental hazards. One of these
educational tools is an informative and entertaining
video entitled, "E-Hazards: They're Out There."
The video comes complete with mystery, whiz-bang
gadgets and mischievous characters, as well as the
latest information for kids and parents. As children
enjoy this video, they become more aware about
how to protect themselves from everyday
environmental hazards. Another component of this
packet is a booklet for parents, teachers, and
caregivers detailing the environmental hazards in the
video, and providing additional information and tips.
To date, more than 500 organizations have
received training and copies of the video package.
Approximately 2,000 more videos have been
requested to fill .back-orders for priority areas, public
libraries, individual schools, and video rental stores.
Furthermore, organizations are seeking to integrate
this package into their children's health programs
and environmental education curriculum. Future
partner products include a lesson plan for teachers
and facilitators, webpage enhancements, and activity
sheets for children.
To add to the product's credibility, the children's
health video was honored with a Telly Award for
outstanding video production. The Telly Awards is
an international competition dedicated to
recognizing outstanding non-network film and video
productions. This year over 11,000 entries com-
peted. Past recipients have included American
Express, The Smithsonian Institute, and Walt Disney
Studios.
Partners: There are too many partners across the
country to name them all but State, local and private
agencies from Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Idaho,
Colorado, New Mexico, Missouri, New Jersey all
contributed.
Resource Leveraged:
EPA Region 1-$1,000
EPA Region 4-,$1,000 . , .
EPA Region 5-$1,000
EPA Office of Children's Health Protection -
$2,000
12
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Project Coordinator GPRA Goal
RG8 Funding
Region 6
William Rhea
1445 Ross Avenue, suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202
214-665-6767
rhea. william @ epa.gov
Goal 1: Clean Air
Reduce Emissions
of air toxics
Clean Air Partnership
FY1999- $50,000
Area Description: Pleasant Hill, Arkansas is a
community of 1,000 in far west Arkansas approxi-
mately 5 miles southeast of Texarkana, Arkansas and
about 5 miles east of the Texas border.
Environmental Problems: The principal concerns
of the residents are hydrogen sulfide (h2S) and
sulfur dioxide (S02) air emissions from the natural
gas plant and paper mill
Goals:
° To develop a unified approach to environmental
problem solving in the community.
e To monitor the ambient air quality in the area,
including on the Texas side.
' To obtain a health evaluation based on the
ambient air quality data.
To make recommendations to the States of Texas
and Arkansas, as well as local officials on how
community environmental problems can be
addressed.
Project Accomplishments:
Beginning in 1996, the Pleasant Hill Workgroup
met to discuss the air pollution problem. After
four years, the Workgroup has developed
cooperative methods of meeting and working on
community environmental problems.
« The Workgroup developed an Action Plan that
called for developing an air monitoring plan,
collecting H2S, VOC and S02 data, and asking
the Federal and State health officials to assess
the data for health impacts. Ambient air
monitoring began April 1, 1998, and was
completed on March 31, 1999 at four Arkansas
monitoring sites and two Texas monitoring sites
for H2S and S02; with one monitor for Volitile
Organic Compounds;
and 20 canisters to grab air samples.
The ambient air data was sent to the Federal
Agency for Toxic Substance Disease Registry
(ATSDR) and the Arkansas Department of
Health (ADH) to conduct a health assessment.
On December 20,1999, ATSDR and ADH
produced a written report saying that during the
monitoring period, ambient air concentrations of
H2S and S02 did not occur at levels that would
pose a public health risk. They also said that air
pollution stationary sources in the area should be
required to monitor for sulfur dioxide and total
reduced sulfurs, as well as have an emergency
alert system if dangerous levels of the pollutants
exist. Finally, the health agencies recommended
indoor air monitoring, at those residences who
have recurrent health complaints.
In the Spring of 2000, the Pleasant Hill
Workgroup will meet to decide what
recommendations should be made as a result of
the ambient air monitoring in the community and
the ATSDR/ADH health report.
Partners: The Workgroup consists of EPA. the
Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality
(ADEQ), International Paper (the kraft paper mill),
NGC (the natural gas plant), ATSDR, ADH, the
Arkansas Department of Emergency Preparedness,
several Arkansas agencies which regulate natural gas
operations, the Texas Natural Resources Conserva-
tion Commission, and three residents of the Pleasant
Hill community.
Resources Leveraged: $243,000 of Clean Air, .
Act .Section 105, $500,000 ADEQ for operating 5
the monitors. ' - ."'" '..' ' : Vv
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Kansas River Watershed Enhancement initiative
Coordinator GPRA Goal
RGI Funding
Region 7
GregMcCabe
901 north 5th Street
Kansas City, KS 66101
913-551-7709
mccabe.greg @ epa.gov
Goat 7: Expansion of
American's Right-to-Know
Goal 8 - Sound Science
Clean and Safe Water
Empowering Right-to-Know
FY 1999-$65,240
Area Description: Kansas/Lower Republican River
Basin (approximately 10,500 square miles in northeast
Kansas and southeast Nebraska)
Environmental Problems: Water pollution from both
non-point sources and point sources are the primary
concern. The main source of non-point source pollu-
tion is runoff from agricultural fields. The main
source of point source pollution is discharge from
municipal sewage treatment plants which lack disin-
fection capability.
Goals: By supporting the efforts of the Kaw Valley
Heritage Alliance (KVHA), this initiative will address
pollution throughout the Kansas River valley in at
least three ways:
Completion of a community profiling study of
Kaw valley residents, the KVHA will gather
demographic information about the communi
ties and survey valley residents about their
most significant environmental concerns:
Start the process of pulling together important
valley stakeholders for the preparation of a
basin-wide watershed management plan;
Stress enhancing the environmental education
of Kaw valley children by continuing its
successful "Classroom to Environment"
program, and by developing a new volunteer
monitoring program and summer day camp
program for school children in the Kansas
River valley.
Project Accomplishments: To name a few:
Eagle's Day - Eagle's Day is a day-long series of
educational programs and displays focusing on
water quality and habitat preservation. An
estimated 1500 people participated;
StreamLink - a school-based volunteer water
quality monitoring program for Kaw Valley stu
dents in grades K-12. To date, 36 school teachers
have been trained and are participating in the
program. An additional 30 volunteers have also
been trained;
" Prepared a Quality Assurance Project Plan for
the StreamLink volunteer monitoring activities.
This has been approved by EPA Region 7 quality
assurance staff;
Encountering the Kaw Valley - A week-
long summer day camp for upper elementary
students to gain an understanding of, and an
appreciation for, their local watershed.
' Guidebook - The KVHA has hired an author to
write "Exploring the Kaw Valley" (working title),
a book of 10 driving tours in the Kaw Valley.
Tour destinations will incorporate the five the
matic KVHA areas of focus: natural resources,
water resources, agriculture, culture/history, and
recreation;
KVHA website - The KVHA completed its'
Internet website and is on-line at www.kvha.org.
Partners: Over 40 individuals and organizations have
signed the partnership agreement. Included are:
USGS, National Park Service, Kansas Department of
Health & Environment, Kansas Water Office, Kansas
Department of Wildlife & Parks, Kansas Department
of Agriculture, City of Topeka, City of Lawrence,
Farm Bureau, Kansas University, Kansas State Univer-
sity, and others.
Resources Leveraged: National Park Service
$30,750, National Endowment for .the"Humanities
$ 18,200,;and;Kansas Water Office "$30,000, Kansas
Humanities Council $7,083, Significant in-kind "
jjl - '
.services .are also being provided by many of the
partners.
14
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Project Coordinator
Region 7
David Doyle
901 north 5lh Street
Kansas City, KS 66101
913-551-7667
doyle.david @ epa.gov
Omaha Lead Coalition
GPRA Goal Presidential/Agency RGI Funding
initiative
Goal 4: Pollution Prevention Protecting Children's health FY 1 999 - $45,000
FY 2000 - $48,500
Area Description: Omaha, Nebraska
Environmental Problems: In 1998, Region 7 re-
ceived a letter from the Omaha City Council stating
over 21% of children tested for blood lead levels in
Douglas County exceeded federal health standards for
lead. In several areas in north Omaha, such standards
were exceeded by as many as 35% of children tested.
EPA was asked to assist in developing and implement-
ing a plan to address this problem.
Goals: EPA agreed to lead a strategic planning effort
to develop and implement a plan to address childhood
lead poisoning in Omaha.
Project Accomplishments: Strategic planning ses-
sions were conducted. As a result, a coalition of local
organizations and concerned citizens was formed: the
Lead Safe Omaha Coalition (LSOC). The coalition
has had many accomplishments. Below are some
examples.
» HUD Community Lead Grant - LSOC members
participated in developing and submitting a grant
application to the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development (HUD).
State Lead Inspection and Certification Program -
LSOC members, with the assistance of the City,
submitted a bill to the legislature that would allow
the Nebraska Department of Health and Human
Services to establish a state lead inspection and
certification program. This bill was passed
unanimously by the legislature and signed into
law.
Soil Sampling and Removal In 1999, EPA began
sampling soil in yards of child care providers
and residences of children with elevated blood
lead levels. To date, soil removal actions have
occurred at 85 locations.
with an eventual total of 109 anticipated to occur
by June 2000.
The RGI grant will support the Indian Chicane
Health Center to hire a full-time employee to
conduct LSOC administrative activities, as well as
have faculty at the University of Nebraska -
Omaha School of Health provide assistance to the
LSOC to complete and monitor accomplishments
under the strategic plan.
Focus Section 1018 Inspection activities in
Omaha - The Region 7 has committed to focus
lead activities in Omaha during FYOO.
LSOC elected a local chairperson and an executive
board - EPA's future role in relation to the LSOC
will be one of advise and assistance.
Finalized Strategic Plan in May 2000 - the LSOC
strategic plan will be finalized in May 2000, with
implementation of the specific action items in the
plan underway shortly thereafter.
Partners: Omaha City Council, Douglas County
Health Department, Nebraska HHS, Inner City Coali-
tion on the Environment, Omaha City Planning
Department, Omaha City Public Works Department,
HUD, Omaha Housing Authority, Omaha Public
Schools, Douglas County Commissioners, University
of Nebraska - Omaha, Ponca Tribe of Omaha, City
Sprouts, Nebraska DEQ, Sierra Club, Council Bluffs
Health Department, National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People, Iowa Department of
Health, Urban League of Nebraska, Douglas County
Housing Authority, Charles Drew Health Center,
Indian Chicano Health Center, Omaha Weed & Seed,
Child and Family Development Corporation, and
numerous private citizens.
For Internal EPA Use Only
15
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Project Coordinator
South Platte
GPRA Goal
RG8 Funding
Region 8
Karen Hamilton
99918th Street. Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2466
303-312-6236
Hamilton .karen @ epa.gov
Goal 2: Clean Water
Restore and Protect
Watersheds
Ensuring Clean & Safe Water
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
FY 1998-$40,000
Area Description: The Upper South Platte River
Watershed is a high mountain watershed located in
central Colorado southwest of Denver. The
watershed extends from .Strontia Springs Dam about
20 miles south of Denver to the Continental Divide.
The watershed is approximately 2,600 square miles
and covers parts of Park, Teller, Jefferson, Clear
Creek, and Douglas Counties.
Environmental Problems: There are historical
problems from hard rock mining, overgrazing, and
hydrologic modifications. There are more recent
problems resulting from poor forest health, such as
catastrophic fires, and from off road vehicles
(ORVs). The watershed is also experiencing rapid
urban growth as Denver growth expands past the
suburbs. A major portion of Denver's water supply
flows through this watershed.
Goals: A variety of partners came together as the
Upper South Platte Watershed Protection
Association to take a proactive approach to address
current and potential threats to surface and ground
water. This project collected and assessed existing
data on potential contaminant sources related to
agriculture, erosion, mine discharges and runoff,
wastewater/septic systems, fires, natural sources,
recreation, and solid/hazardous waste disposal.
Project Accomplishments:
. Identified and documented available data and
responsible entities related to watershed land use
activities, water quality, environmental quality, and
GIS information.
° Identified and ranked existing and potential
sources that can affect water quality and
ecological health of the watershed.
a Assess water quality and stream health
conditions of the watershed.
8 Prioritize areas for potential protection or
restoration activities, and identify areas for
further study.
Partners: The engineering firm contracted to
complete the project was Brown and Caldwell of
Denver. The contractor was assisted by many
stakeholders in this watershed effort, including: the
five county governments, Denver Water, City of
Aurora, U. S. Forest Service, Natural Resources
Conservation Service, U. S. Geological Survey,
Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, Bureau of Land Management,
Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado
Division of Wildlife, Colorado Division of Minerals
and Geology, Colorado State Park Service, Denver
Regional Council of Governments, Pikes Peak Area
Council of Governments, Northwest Colorado
Council of Governments, and the Environmental
Protection Agency.
Resources Leveraged: $7,000 from the organiza-
tions on the Association's Steering Committee;
$4,500 from the Park County South Park Heritage
Project; $5,000 from the Park County'Sales Tax
Set Aside;-$l.,000^;from.Steering Committee'.: - <
contributions; and $3 8,000 of program' "start-up'
funds from Denver Water and City of Aurora.
16
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Understanding the Benefits of River and Wetland Restoration in So. Dakota
Project Coordinator GPRA Goal Presidential/Agency RG! Funding
Initiative
Region 8
Ayn Smith
999 18th Street. Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2466
303-312-6220
hamilton.karen@epa.gov
Goal 2: Clean Water
Aquatic Stressors
Goal 4 Pollution Prevention
Reduce Pesticide Exposure
Ensuring Clean & Safe Water FY 1 997 - $30,000
FY 1 996 - $26,000
Area Description: The first and third phases of this
project involved the Vermillion River Basin, a
largely agricultural watershed draining roughly 2.500
square miles in eastern South Dakota. The
Vermillion River travels 120 miles through the
northern glaciated plains before reaching its
confluence with the Missouri River.
Environmental Problems: Many of the once
prolific wetlands in the Vermillion Basin have been
drained, particularly in the upper basin. Roughly
80% of the watershed once drained into small closed
basin wetlands rather than flowing into the river. As
these wetlands have been drained, water running off
the landscape flows into drainage ditches or feeder
streams and is conveyed quickly to the river. This
has exacerbated the chronic flooding problems
experienced in the basin. It has also resulted in the
loss and degradation of aquatic and riparian habitat.
Six species that live in the basin are endangered or
of concern.
Because the economic benefits and flood attenu-
ation benefits of river and wetland restoration and
non-structural flood prevention are poorly under-
stood, these approaches may not be viewed by local
communities as viable alternatives for managing
chronic flooding problems like those plaguing the
Vermillion River Basin. Consequently, communities
and agencies may view structural approaches such as
further channelization and levee construction as the
only solution to chronic flooding problems.
Project Goals:
Work with local groups in the Vermillion River
basin to develop and promote a wetlands
restoration approach to resolving flooding
issues.
Develop a manual to help decision-makers fully
understand the economic benefits and costs of
river and wetlands restoration
Use the Vermillion River basin as a case study
for applying the approach outlined in the
manual.
Accomplishments/Publications:
The Vermillion River: Managing the Watershed to
Reduce Flooding was developed and published by
the Clay County, SD Conservation District. The
document makes the case for a watershed restoration
approach to controlling flooding.
The Economic Consequences of River and Wetland
Restoration: A Conceptual Manual was developed
by the University of Montana and ECONorthwest.
The manual provides a framework for watershed
residents to assess the full range of local and
regional economic consequences of proposed resto-
ration projects.
An Economic Evaluation of Flood Control Alterna-
tives in the Vermillion River Basin, South Dakota
was developed as a case study for the conceptual
manual. Meetings were held locally to present the
results of this case study. The case study was
subsequently published in the Great Plains Natural
Resource Journal.
Partners: Clay County Conservation District, South
Dakota State University, University of Montana.
ECONorthwest
Resources Leveraged:
'$18,720 in consultant services was, provided by
(tne Clay' County Conservation District.
$4,100mriaatching funds was provided; by the
University of Montana :
For Internal EPA Use Only
17
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Environment
Project Coordinator
GPRA Goal
RG8 Funding
Initiative
Region 9
Dan Reich
75 Hawthorne Ave
San Francisco, Ca 94105
415-744-1343
reich.daniel@epa.gov
Goal 4: Pollution Prevention
Goal 8: Sound Science
Goal 9: Enforcement
Livable Communities
Environmental Justice
FY 1999-$80,000
Area Description: Southern California
Environmental Problems: Region 9 has found that
small businesses such as metal finishers, and
laundries are significant emitters of TRI chemicals
and contribute to multimedia environmental impacts.
Because these businesses are small, they lack the
tools needed to meet regulations and have a history
of compliance problems.
Goals: Under the guidance of the Merit Partnership
(a multi-stakeholder consortia of industry,
government and local community citizens) EMS
projects strive to:
Reduce collective environmental wastes at metal
finishing facilities
Provide transferable P2 methods to other
similar industry sectors
Help metal finishers & other small industrial
businesses create and implement an EMS to
improve compliance & promote pollution
prevention
Project Accomplishments:
EMS Metal Finishers Project - A metal finishing
EMS Template was created and is currently
being implemented at 10 metal plating shops as
part of an EMS workshop series. The template
which includes innovative tools such as health,
environmental, and safety checklists have
already begun to yield positive results. One
facility reduced bleach usage by 30%, reducing
the risk of burns and asphyxiation. They also
decreased cyanide use, eliminating permit
exceedences and saved $100,000.
EMS Project for Small Industrial Laundry - An
EMS was implemented at Best Western Laundry
in southern California. Results included a 28%
decrease in electricity usage, and 12.5% decrease
in gas usage over a one year period. The facility
realized a $800-$ 1000 per month saving in
natural gas.
Partners:
The Merit Partnership is a cooperative venture of
public and private sectors. Led by a Steering Com-
mittee and advised by a Community Advisory Panel.
The panel consists of Coalition for Clean Air. Clean
Air Now, and Mothers of East L.A. Steering Com-
mittee members include Lockheed Corp., Weststart,
the Wrigley Institute, Northrup Grumman, and EPA.
Individual Merit Project stakeholders include Cali-
fornia EPA, and the Metal Finishing Association of
Southern California.
Resources Leveraged:
Merit's partners and project participants provide
both financial and in-kind resources (e.g., techni-
cal consultation, printing and distribution .of fact
sheets, etc.). A recently funded EMS Border
project leveraged $170,000 from the U.S. Agency
for International Development. The Los Angeles
and Orange County 'Sanitation Districts, the City
of LA. and the Metal Finishers Association of
Southern California have cost-shared with EPA on
EMS workshops. Merit has also leveraged EPA
pollution prevention funds to finance EMS
training for metal finishers in Southern California.
18
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Capacity for Land Trusts to Protect California Central
Coordinator GPRA Goal
RGI Funding
Region 9
Tim Vendlinski
75 Hawthorne Ave
San Francisco, Ca 94105
415-744-2276
venlinski.tim@epa.gov
Goal 2: Clean & Safe Water Clean & Safe Water
FY 1999 - $240,000
Area Description: At 430 miles long and 50 miles
wide, California's 15 million-acre Central Valley is a
remarkable landscape feature. The Valley
encompasses the Sacramento and San Joaquin
valleys, and a myriad of rivers and streams that flow
from the Sierra Nevada.
Environmental Problem: California's agricultural
and environmental assets are recognized and valued
worldwide. Yet pressures to subdivide and develop
farms, ranches, and natural sites on the fringes of
metropolitan areas or to develop "new towns"
entirely from scratch threaten both the long-term
security of our Nation's food supply and the ecologi-
cal underpinnings of California's quality of life.
Goals:
Protect watersheds and low-elevation ecosystems
through the preservation and restoration of
aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Provide leadership for the implementation of the
Framework Agreement for the Interagency
Vernal Pool Stewardship Initiative.
Foster partnerships, collaboration, and
information exchange with other agencies and
non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Increase the integration of planning, permitting,
and enforcement programs.
Increase the integration of scientific research and
the formulation of environmental policies.
Accomplishments:
Cosumnes River Sacramento County:Region
9 with multiple partners purchased the nearly-
pristine~13,000-acre Howard Ranch. The Ranch
encompasses the transition zone between Central
Valley wetlands (vernal pools and related aquatic
sites) and the oak-studded foothills of the Sierra
Nevada. This was a significant antidegradation"
accomplishment because the Howard family was
entertaining a separate offer from a powerful
developer. Now, the Ranch will be added to
other conservation holdings within the watershed
now totaling 40,000-acres.
Sacramento VemalPool Prairie Preserve:
In a partnership to build capacity of local land
trusts in geographically strategic regions, Region
9 provided a $40,000 RGI grant to protect
critically threatened wetlands and endangered
species inside the Urban Services Boundary of
Sacramento County. By integrating multiple
investments this project has established a
3,000-acre planning area for a proposed
Sacramento Prairie Vernal Pool Preserve.
Partners: Consumes River: The Nature
Conservancy (TNC), Natural Resources Conserva-
tion Service (NRCS), the Packard Foundation, the
State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB)
Sacramento Vernal Pool Prairie Preserve: Trust for
Public Land (TPL), Sacramento Valley Open Space
Conservancy (SVOSC), South Sacramento County,
State Department of Fish and Game,
Resources Leveraged: Consumes River: To
complete .the $14 mid-lion deal, USEPA and.
SW^CB loaned TNC $8. million through the
"expanded-use" provisions of the Clean Water
State involving Fund (Clean Water,SRF).;
'Sacramento,Vernal Pool Prairie Preserve: Clean.
Water SRF, $1,500,000, U.S.Fish and;Wildlife
Service;and:the U.S. Bureau of iReclamatlon
contributed;$400,£)00, Packard;Foundation;at .
$300,000, Sacramento County at "$90,000,
For Internal EPA Use Only
19
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Project Coordinator GPRA Goad
RG5 Funding
Region 10
Anna Maria Munoz
12006th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
206-553-0266
munoz.annamaria@epa.gov@epa.gov
Goal 4: Pollution Prevention
Goal 7: Expansion of
American's Right-to-Know
Empowering Citizens R-t-K
Protecting Children's Health
FY 1998-$30,000
Area Description: Snake River Plain of Idaho, from
Weiser at the Oregon border in southwestern Idaho
to Idaho Falls/Rexburg in southeastern Idaho.
Environmental Problems: Pesticide exposure is
one of the greatest problems affecting poor Hispanic
farmworkers and their children in Idaho.
Farmworkers mix and apply the chemicals and work
in the orchards and fields where they are applied.
Children are exposed to these pesticides from an
array of sources: some go to work with their parents
because daycare is unavailable, some children help
their parents in the fields and orchards, and some
families/children live and play very close to the work
areas. Pesticide exposure can lead to a variety of
problems from mild dermatitis to eye irritation,
gastroenteritis, musculoskeletal problem and even
death. It has been linked to such things as cancer
and birth defects.
Goals
To educate farmworkers on the human health
risks associated with pesticide exposure.
To provide a statewide self sustaining coalition of
farmworkers to organize, educate and empower
farmworkers to reduce or eliminate their
exposure to pesticides and avoid exposure.
To use the expertise of the Idaho Legal Aid
Services Migrant Unit to: 1) solidify the gains of
Campesinos Unidos, 2) act as an advisor to and
logistical base for the coalition; 3) assist the
coalition to expand from its base in southwestern
Idaho to south central and southeastern Idaho;
4) carry out an extensive statewide Spanish radio
campaign on pesticide education; 5) and continue
providing to farmworkers, pesticide education
and training on the Worker Protection Standard
Project Accomplishments:
The Idaho Legal Aid Services Migrant unit
contacted approximately 1844 farmworkers
through one-on-one outreach throughout Idaho.
Twenty-four trainings were conducted in which
Over 280 farmworkers were trained on pesticide
handling and application.
Over 5,000 farmworkers were reached through
radio and the Idaho Spanish newspaper "Idaho
Unido".
A total of 77 membership applications were
signed representing well over 100 members.
These membership are the start of the
self- sustaining coalition.
Campesinos Unidos de Idaho (United
Farmworkers of Idaho), the farmworker
coalition, will continue on its own after the grant
period. Under the self-direction of the
farmworkers board, the coalition will continue to
educate farmworkers on the hazards of
pesticides.
Partners
Idaho Farmworkers Resources Committee
Idaho Migrant Council
Idaho Hispanic Caucus
Mujeres Unidas de Idaho
Idaho Department of Agriculture
Idaho Department of Labor
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Terry Reilly Health Services
Valley Health Care
Resources Leveraged:
$35;562;from:theLSC migrant fund.
20
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Project Coordinator GPRA Goal
Presidential/Agency
initiative
Region 10
Karl Arne
12006th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
206-553-2576
arne.karl@epa.gov
Goal 2: Clan Water
Goal 4: Pollution Prevention
Goal 7: Expansion of
American's Right-to-Know
Building Livable Communities FY 1997 - $180,000
Ensuring Clean and Safe Water FY 1998 - $220,000
Empowering Citizens R-t-K FY 1999 - $155,000
Protecting Children's Health FY 2000 - $40,000
Area Description: The Columbia Plateau of Cen-
tral Washington includes the counties of Adams,
Grant, Benton, Franklin and Lincoln. Hot, dry
summers and cold moist winters with very low
annual precipitation define the region.
Environmental Problems: The Plateau is inten-
sively managed primarily for agriculture. This has
lead to multiple environmental problems including
nitrate contamination of groundwater (linked to
"blue baby syndrome"), pesticide contamination of
surface and ground water, soil erosion, declining
plant and animal diversity. Wind blown dust from
tilled fields affects areas as far away as the city of
Spokane.
Goals: To gain environmental and public health
benefits through locally-supported actions in col-
laboration with the agricultural community. The
multi-program team relies on interdisciplinary
approaches, voluntary cooperation, and financial and
technical assistance to identify and promote farming
practices that are integrated, sustainable, and protect
both the environment and the local economy.
Project Accomplishments: A few of the successes
from this multi year project:
« Demonstrated and implemented farm practices
such as precision application of fertilizer. The
demonstration showed the value of fertilizer
saved was approximately $13,200 per acre.
Water reduction practices decreased water use by
about 50% and also reduced the amount of
nitrogen in the ground.
The Wilke Farm Project demonstrated the
adoption of crop diversification and soil
protection using no-till farming methods.
Research was conducted on weed and insect
populations, diseases, crop yields, post harvest
residue, water infiltration rates, and economic
analysis to determine the benefits to soil
protection and pesticide reduction. A field day
to show farmers about these techniques attracted
about 100 people in 1998, up from six in 1997.
Interest in Wilke Farm has resulted in
Washington State University providing a faculty
position for that site.
Nine sediment containment structures were built
at Washington State University's Lind Field
Station. Over 200 cooperators learned how
much sediment leaves the fields and how
important these structures are for capturing the
sediment.
Partners
Landowners and Farmers, The McGregor Company,
Western Farm Services. McKay Seed Company
(Almira), Monsanto, Washington Association of
Wheat Growers, The Conservation Districts of each
county, Washington Depts. of Nat'1 Resources and
Ecology Washington State University Cooperative
Extension, Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife, Natural Resources Conservation Services
Resburces Leveraged: =
Countless hours volunteered by farmers! Dept of
[Ecology >grant to Adams Conservation District for,
.$250,000. $SO,0t)0 from WasmngtonfWA)
Conservation Commission. Staff time from WA
Stale University, USDA-ARS and. WA Potato
Commission. .
For Internal EPA Use Only
21
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Projects by Agency Goals
Goal 1: Clean Air
Southern Appalachian Mountains Initiative - $65K
Atmospheric Deposition of Toxic Materials - $42K
Healthy Environment/Healthy Children - $50K
Ambient Air Monitoring in Pleasant Hill - $5 OK
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - S600K
Goal 2: Clean and Safe Water
Contaminants in Fish and Shellfish Tissue - $120K
Cheat River, PA Restoration - $250K
Sustainablility Grant for Chagrin Watershed - $35K
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
South Platte River Watershed - $40K
Benefits of River and Wetland Restoration -$56K
Building Capacity to Protect CA Wetlands - $240K
Goal 4: Preventing Pollution and
Reducing Risk in Communities,
Homes, Workplaces and Ecosystems
City of Providence Vacant Lot Program - $20K
Hartford Environmental Justice Network - $35 K
Combatting Childhood Asthma in S. Bronx - $240K
South-Southwest Philadelphia - $60K
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
Healthy Environment/Healthy Children - $50K
Omaha Lead Coalition - $94K
Benefits of River and Wetland Restoration - $56K
Env. Mgmt. Systems - Merit Partnership - $80K
Idaho Farmworker Empowerment Project - $3OK
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - $600K
Goa! 5: Better Waste Management,
Restoration of Contaminated Waste
Sites, and Emergency Response
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
Goal 7: Expansion of American's Right
to Know About Their Environment
City of Providence Vacant Lot Program - $20K
Hartford Environmental Justice Network - $35 K
Combatting Childhood Asthma in S. Bronx - $240K
South-Southwest Philadelphia - $60K
Healthy Environment/Healthy Children - $5 OK
Kansas River Watershed Enhancement - $65K
Idaho Farmworker Empowerment Project - $3OK
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - S600K
Goal 8: Sound Science, Improved
Understanding of Environmental
Risk and Greater Innovation to
Address Environmental Problems
Kansas River Watershed Enhancement - $65K
Env. Mgmt. Systems - Merit Partnership - $80K
Goal 9: A Credible Deterrent to
Pollution and Greater Compliance
with the Law
Env. Mgmt. Systems - Merit Partnership - $8 OK
22
For Internal EPA Use Only
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Projects by Presidential and/or Agency Initiative
Livable Communities
City of Providence Vacant Lot Program - $20K
Hartford Environmental Justice Network - $35 K
Combatting Childhood Asthma in S. Bronx - $240K
South-Southwest Philadelphia - $60K
Cheat River, PA Restoration - $250K
Sustainability Grant for Chagrin Watershed - $35K
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
Env. Mgmt. Systems - Merit Partnership - $80K
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - $600K
Empowering Citizens Right-to-Know
City of Providence Vacant Lot Program - $20K
Hartford Environmental Justice Network - $35 K
Combatting Childhood Asthma in S. Bronx - $240K
South-Southwest Philadelphia - $60K
Sustainability Grant for Chagrin Watershed - $35K
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
Kansas River Watershed Enhancement - $65K
South Platte River Watershed - $40K
Idaho Farmworker Empowerment Project - $3OK
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - S600K
Children's Health
City of Providence Vacant Lot Program - $20K
Hartford Environmental Justice Network - $35 K
Combatting Childhood Asthma in S. Bronx - $240K
Healthy Environment/Healthy Children - $5 OK
Omaha Lead Coalition - $94K
Idaho Farmworker Empowerment Project - $30K
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - $600K
Environmental Justice
Combatting Childhood Asthma in S. Bronx - $240K
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
Env. Mgmt. Systems - Merit Partnership - $80K
Ensuring Clean and Safe Water
Contaminants in Fish and Shellfish Tissue - $120K
Cheat River, PA Restoration - $250K
Sustainability Grant for Chagrin Watershed - $35K
Shiawasee & Huron Headwaters Project - $75K
Kansas River Watershed Enhancement - $65K
South Platte River Watershed - $40K
Benefits of River and Wetland Restoration - $56K
Building Capacity to Protect CA Wetlands - $240K
Columbia Plateau Agricultural Initiative - $600K
Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxics
Contaminants in Fish and Shellfish Tissue - $120K
Clean Air Partnership
Southern Appalachian Mountains Initiative - $65K
Atmospheric Deposition of Toxic Materials - $42K
Ambient Air Monitoring in Pleasant Hill - $5OK
For Internal EPA Use Only
23'
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Region 1 Deb Harstedt
One Congrees Street, Suite 1100
Boston, MA 01103-0001
Region 2 Rabi Kieber
290 Broadway
New York, NY 10007-1866
Region 3 Jada Goodwin
1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029
Region 4 Bob Cooper
61 Forsyth Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303-3104
Region 5 Andrew Anderson
77 West Jackson Blvd
Chicago, IL 60604-3507
Region 6 TEMP-Steve Mouck
Fountain Place, 12th Floor #1200
1445 Rose Avenue
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
Region 7 Dick Sumpter
Kathleen Fenton
726 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
Region 8 Pam Dougherty
999 18th Street, Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2466
Region 9 Janis Gomes
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Region 10 TEMP-Kathleen Veit
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone:(617)918-1085
harstedt.deborah @ epa.gov
Phone:(212)637-4448
kieber.rabi@epa.gov
Phone:(215)815-5381
goodwin.jada@epa.gov
Phone: (404) 562-8281
cooper.robert@epa.gov
Phone:(312)353-9681
anderson.andrew@epa.gov
Phone:(214)665-6524
mouck.steve@epa.gov
Phone:(913)551-7661
Phone:(913)551-7874
sumpter.richard@epa.gov
fenton.kathleen @ epa.gov
Phone:(303)312-6012
dougherty.pam @ epa.gov
Phone:(415)744-1612
gomes.janis @ epa.gov
Phone:(206)553-1983
veit.kathleen @ epa.gov
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