REGION 9 EPA
MID-YEAR UPDATE
FY 95 U.S.-MEXICO BORDER PROJECTS
OVERALL CONTACT: John Hamill
Border Coordinator
EPA Region 9
415-744-1281
-------
CONTENTS
BACKGROUND 3
HIGHLIGHTS OF RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS 5
1995 PROJECTS 6-30
BORDER LIAISON OFFICE 7
WATER 8
AIR 15
PESTICIDES 19
POLLUTION PREVENTION 20
SOLID AND HAZARDOUS WASTE 21
ENFORCEMENT 29
-------
BACKGROUND
LA PAZ AGREEMENT AND INTEGRATED BORDER ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN
The 1983 La Paz Agreement signed by Presidents Reagan and De la Madrid named EPA and
SEDUE (Secretary for Urban Development and Ecology) as National Coordinators to implement a
program of cooperation on border environmental issues. SEDUE has since been dissolved and EPA
is now working with the newly created Secretariat of Environment, Natural Resources and Fisheries
(Secretariat of Environment). The La Paz Agreement established a mechanism for creating
Binational Workgroups. It also established a mechanism for negotiating specific technical
agreements (annexes). There are five annexes to the La Paz Agreement:
Annex I: Wastewater Treatment Facilities
Annex II: Inland Joint Response Team
Annex ffl: Transboundary Shipment of Hazardous Waste
Annex IV: Copper Smelter Accord
Annex V: Air Quality Management
The Integrated Border Environmental Plan for the U.S./Mexican Border (Border Plan) was
released on February 25, 1992. The Border Plan is a bi-nationally negotiated document that
summarizes specific actions EPA and the Secretariat of Environment intend to take over a three
year period to address the most immediate environmental problems in the border area. EPA and
the Secretariat of Environment are in the process of developing a second phase of the Border Plan,
Border 2000, which will refine and redirect bilateral environmental protection efforts based on
information obtained through implementation of the first phase of the Border Plan.
INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
Six Binational Workgroups are the formal mechanism through which EPA and the
Secretariat for the Environment are cooperating to implement the Border Plan. The Workgroups,
which were formed as a result of the La Paz Agreement, are: Hazardous Waste, Pollution
Prevention, Contingency Planning and Emergency Response, Water, Air and Enforcement.
Currently, reorganization of the existing workgroup structure is under consideration. The
workgroups may be reorganized to more closely reflect the functional roles of Mexican agencies
that are responsible for environmental programs and the broader-scale institutional changes
currently taking place as the Secretariat for the Environment takes shape (see below).
In 1992, Mexico's environmental programs underwent a major reorganization when SEDUE
was reorganized into SEDESOL. Environmental functions were divided within two semi-
autonomous institutions: the National Institute of Ecology (INE), responsible for developing
regulations and standards and for issuing permits, and the Environmental Prosecutor's Office
(PFPA), responsible for environmental enforcement. In addition, water quality regulatory activities
were transferred from SEDUE to the National Water Commission (CNA). All of these changes
required that EPA establish working relationships with a new host of players on the Mexican side
and delayed implementation of some Border Plan activities.
-------
Last Fall's election of President Zedillo resulted in the formation of the Secretariat of
Environment, Natural Resources and Fisheries. As a result, INE, PROFEPA, and CNA now reside
as semi-autonomous units under the recently named Secretary of Environment, Natural Resources
and Fisheries, Dra. Julia Carabias Lillo (see attached organizational chart). Secretary Carabias and
her staff have emphasized that border activities are a high priority and have stressed the need to
involve state and local agencies as well as non-governmental organizations from both sides of the
border in the implementation of border activities.
Finally, the debate leading up to passage of North American Free Trade Agreement focused
significant attention on environmental issues in the border region. Several new institutions are
being established as a result of the passage of NAFTA. These include the tri-lateral Commission on
Environmental Cooperation (CEC), the bilateral Border Environmental Cooperation Commission
(BECC), the North.American Development Bank (NADBANK) and EPA border offices in El Paso
and San Diego. While the role of the Regions in implementation of U.S.-Mexico border programs
will evolve to fit the framework of the post-NAFTA conditions, it is clear that the Regions will
continue to implement border projects.
RESOURCES
Region DC has received approximately $3.7 million in extramural funds for border projects
and S 276.7 million for border wastewater facilities. A comparable level of extramural resources
were requested by the Administration for border environmental initiatives in FY 96.
The recent announcement by the World Bank for a $762 million loan agreement with
Mexico for infrastructure development and institutional support to address environmental issues
along the the Nothern Mexico Border will accelerate border clean-up efforts. These resources will
likely dovetail with our ongoing efforts along the border.
FACTORS IMPACTING IMPLEMENTATION OF PRIORITY ACTIVITIES
The ongoing reorganization and decentralization of Mexico's environmental programs
combined with Mexico's severe financial crisis has limited our ability to jointly characterize the
nature and severity of environmental conditions in the Border Area and take action on known
priority problems. However, we are encouraged by the commitment of Secretary Carabias and her
staff to cooperatively address priority environmental problems with an emphasis on involving all
interested parties in the development of common sense solutions.
-------
HIGHLIGHTS OF RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Tijuana Wastewatcr. Site preparation for the advanced primary treatment plant (South Bay
International Wastewater Treatment Plant) was completed and the contract for construction
was awarded in April 1995. The pipeline (South Bay Land Outfall) which will convey
treated sewage from the plant to the ocean outfall was constructed. Design of the ocean
outfall is nearing completion and construction will start in July 1995. Grants totaling
$239,400,000 have been awarded to complete the project.
Mexicali and Nogales Wastewater. EPA transfered $37,305,000 to IBWC in 1995 for these
projects. The projects will emphasize facility planning and immediate-need project
implementation.
New River Monitoring. The initial round of sampling on the New River has been
completed. Monitoring of the Colorado River is scheduled for June 1995.
Nogales Wellhead Protection. The SouthEastern Arizona Governments Organization has
established technical and education subcommittees which are overseeing delineation of
wellhead protection areas and development of educational materials.
Air Quality Assessment, Source Apportionment and Control Strategy Development.
Industrial development and population growth on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border
along with border geography and weather patterns that disperse air-borne pollutants to both
sides creates substantial air quality problems which require binational attention. Baseline air
quality information from studies to be completed this year in Mexicali-Imperial Valley and
Ambos Nogales as well as studies beginning this year in Tijuana-San Diego and Agua
Prieta-Douglas will provide the foundation for cost-effective binational air pollution
reduction strategies. Training and technical assistance are integral components of these
projects.
Nogales Municipal Landfill Closure Assistance. This binational training and technical
assistance project is well underway. EPA will soon send PROFEPA and the City of
Nogales a report that assesses the current closure plan for the old Nogales landfill and
makes recommendations for future maintenance and control measures at the site. We hope
that this project will set the stage for future collaborative efforts at other solid waste sites
along the border.
Binational Field Sampling and Laboratory Project. A proposal has been developed to
address the need for increased compliance and enforcement under U.S. and Mexico
hazardous waste laws by expanding binational field sampling and lab capacity. The proposal
was developed with input from a variety of Federal, state and local agencies.
Training for Customs Inspectors. This course provides inspectors with information and
procedures to enable increased detection of international hazardous waste shipments. We
will continue to remain involved in refining the course materials and delivering the training
in numerous locations along the border in Arizona and California.
-------
1995 PROJECTS
-------
JSAN nTF.fiO BQRDF.R LIAISON OFFICE
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purposes of the San Diego Border Liaison Office are to: provide a
local "one-stop shop" for citizens of the border area to access information related to EPA binational
border programs and the border environment; a support office for EPA activities related to the
Border Environment Cooperation Commission (BECC); a mechanism for coordinating EPA's
bilateral border program.
2) Background: The San Diego Border Liaison Office was opened in October 1994. Since its
inception the Office has been responding to the public's requests for information about federal
initiatives on the border through presentations at public meetings, meeting individually with
members of the public and state and local governmental officials, and by phone calls. The Office is
also coordinating appropriate outreach efforts with the BECC. The Office also coordinated the
review and evaluation of Border 2000 grant proposals submitted in Region 9 states.
3) Future Activities: The Border Office will be holding border meetings in at least four border
cities in Arizona and California this summer to receive input for Border 2000. A second set of
border meetings is also planned for later in the year when a draft Border 2000 plan will be
available. The Office is also involved in the planning and implementation of outreach efforts for
the planned treatments plants in San Diego, Mexicali, and Ambos Nogales
4) Staffing: Three additional staff members will be hired and are expected to begin work by July
1, 1995.
5) Office Contact: David Fege, EPA-Region 9/San Diego (619) 235-4769
-------
NOflAT-ES WASTEWATER
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose is to provide adequate wastewater treatment for the
Ambos Nogales area to protect public health and the environment. Objectives include providing
additional treatment capacity for Nogales, Sonora, and implementation of an effective pretreatment
program.
2) Funding: EPA has given $47,500,000 to USIBWC for this and other border wastewater projects.
Additional U.S. funding for this project could come from EPA or BECC/NADBank funds in
future years. In addition, EPA has provided USIBWC $200,000 for development of a pretreatment
program.
3) Partners: Primary U.S. partners are USIBWC, State of-Arizona (Arizona Department of
Environmental Quality), and City of Nogales, Arizona. Primary Mexican partners are MxIBWC,
State of Sonora, and City of Nogales, Sonora.
4) Description: The Ambos Nogales area is currently served by the Nogales International
Wastewater Treatment Plant (ITP). However, deficiencies in the current system result in raw
sewage flowing across the border in the Nogales Wash and in adjacent washes and canyons. Also,
Nogales, Sonora, is utilizing its full capacity at the ITP and additional capacity is needed. The
project involves the planning, design, and construction of facilities to provide for improved
wastewater collection and conveyance and additional treatment capacity.
The project also involves the development and implementation of an effective pretreatment program
for the FTP. IBWC will hire a consultant to calculate the maximum levels of toxic pollutants that
can safely be treated at the ITP (headworks analysis). IBWC will then allocate the allowable
amounts to the two countries, which will regulate users of the system to ensure compliance. IBWC
will also monitor wastewater arriving at the ITP and at various points in the collection system and
set-up laboratory equipment for binational use.
5) Status: In January 1995, the U.S. proposed that a facility plan be prepared which will analyze
the technical, financial, and environmental aspects of the available project alternatives. EPA is
considering a proposal from the City of Nogales, Arizona, to make immediate improvements (quick
fixes) and conduct further study of infiltration and inflow into the collection system in the U.S.
Issuance of the pretreatment contract for preparation of the headworks analysis, development of a
QA/QC plan for wastewater monitoring, and set-up of the laboratory equipment have been delayed
while IBWC staff complete other assignments.
6) Schedule: The U.S. will soon make a more detailed proposal regarding (1) preparation of a
facility plan and (2) immediate improvements (quick fixes) to the collection system to reduce
infiltration and inflow. Once initiated, the facility plan should be completed in about a year.
7) U.S. Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1280
Bill Ruth, USIBWC, 915-534-6690
Mario Castenada, ADEQ, 602-207-4409
Hugh Holub, City of Nogales, Arizona, 602-287-6571
8
-------
NOfiALES GROUND WATER MONITORING
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose is to determine the extent and possible origin of volatile
organic compounds (VOQ in the transboundary aquifer under Nogales Wash in Ambos Nogales,
which could pose a potential public health threat. Objectives include the construction of
monitoring wells and implementation of a quarterly monitoring program to quantify VOC levels,
assist in ground water contaminant source identification and control, and establish a baseline for
VOC levels in the transboundary aquifer.
2) Funding: EPA has provided $200,000 to USIBWC and $65,000 to Arizona Department of
Environmental Quality (ADEQ) to implement this project. EPA is also funding a position at
ADEQ in part to provide technical support on this project.
3) Partners: ADEQ will be the lead for the U.S. and USIBWC will also be a primary partner.
Mexican partners include MxffiWC and CNA.
4) Description: Past studies of ground water quality in the Nogales, Arizona, area have indicated
the presence of VOCs and trihalomethane in the transboundary aquifer under Nogales Wash. The
problem seems to be on both sides of the border, but the problem has not been satisfactorily
studied on a binational level. The project will consist of the construction and monitoring of equal
numbers of wells on each side of the border. Samples will be taken and analyzed on a quarterly
basis. All samples taken will be split for separate analysis by the U.S. and Mexico.
5) Status: The U.S. has prepared a workplan for well construction and USIBWC has solicited bids
from contractors. ADEQ is in the process of obtaining rights-of-entry from U.S. property owners
to drill wells on their property. Mexico has indicated that it has some concerns with the well
construction workplan and has requested a meeting in February.
6) Schedule: IBWC is trying to resolve concerns regarding the workplan and will schedule a
binational meeting. The U.S. will be proceeding with construction of wells on the U.S. side of the
border and the wells on the Mexican side of the border will be constructed later. Well construction
on the U.S. side is scheduled to start in late May 1995.
7) U.S. Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1280
Bill Ruth, USIBWC, 915-534-6690
Mario Castenada, ADEQ, 602-207-4409
9
-------
. WELLHFAD PROTECTION
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose is to employ wellhead protection strategies in a proactive
effort to protect the quality of the ground water in the transboundary aquifer under the Ambos
Nogales area. Objectives include enhancement of local voluntary involvement in the management
of ground water quality, education of the public on ground water quality, and measurement of
direct environmental and human health benefits for wellhead protection.
2) Funding: EPA is providing $195,078 to the SouthEastern Arizona Governments Organization
(SEAGO) to implement the project, including the funding of an IPA. EPA is also funding a
position at ADEQ in part to provide technical support on this project. EPA has reserved funds to
extend the IPA, if necessary.
3) Partners: Primary U.S. partners include SEAGO and ADEQ. Discussions on extending the
effort into Mexico would involve the IBWC.
4) Description: This project is intended to protect the region's ground water before it becomes
contaminated. The project focuses on the apparent, but often ignored, link between activities that
take place on the land near aquifer recharge areas around ground water wells and the quality of
ground water supplied by those wells. General -elements of the project include defining the land
area to be protected, identifying and locating potential sources of contamination, managing the
protection area, and planning accordingly.
5) Status: At this time, the project is focussed on developing a wellhead protection program for
the Nogales, Arizona, area, but the effort could be extended into Mexico, if Mexico is interested. A
Planning Advisory Committee, comprised of two subcommittees: Technical Committee and
Education Committee, has been formed. The Technical Committee conducted a technical
workshop for the Education Committee members to assist them in developing curricula to use in
Nogales schools. A Core Educators Group has been formed and is drafting bilingual curricula for
grades K through 12. The Technical Committee has decided that the first phase of the wellhead
protection area delineation and data collection effort will address City-owned and operated wells.
ADEQ has produced a CIS-based preliminary basemap of the study area. The map will be revised
to include the wellhead protection areas and other resource information (e.g., rivers and streams).
ADEQ has also produced a preliminary delineation of the wellhead protection areas of three of the
City's six public water supply wells.
6) Schedule: Drafts of the K - 12 school curricula and delineation of wellhead protection areas for
water supply wells will be completed in April 1995. Curricula materials will be used in schools
beginning in September 1995. Draft wellhead protection management options will be presented to
the Technical Committee in late 1995 and a final plan will be adopted in early to mid 1996.
7) U.S. Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1280
BUI Ruth, USIBWC, 915-534-6690
Mario Castenada, ADEQ, 602-207-4409
Michele Kimpel, SEAGO, 602-432-5301
10
-------
MEXICALJ WASTEWATER
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose is to provide adequate wastewater treatment for the City
of Mexicali, Baja California, and thereby improve the quality of the New River. Objectives include
improvement of the existing wastewater treatment system (Mexicali I), development of a second
system (Mexicali II), and implementation of an effective pretreatment program. Control of
industrial and domestic wastewater will result in considerable improvement in the quality of the
New River where it crosses the international boundary, reducing a serious existing public health
threat.
2) Funding: EPA has given $47,500,000 to USIBWC for this and other border wastewater projects.
Additional U.S. funding for this project could come from EPA or BECC/NADBank in future
years.
3) Partners: Primary U.S. partners are USIBWC and State of California (State Water Resources
Control Board [SWRCB] and Regional Water Quality Control Board, Colorado River Basin Region
[RWQCB 7J. Primary Mexican partners are MxffiWC, CNA, and State of Baja California None
(CESP).
4) Description: The City of Mexicali is currently served by the Mexicali I wastewater collection,
conveyance, and treatment system and by the Gonzales-Ortega treatment plant. The Mexicali I
system needs to be repaired and upgraded and the Gonzales-Ortega plant is badly overloaded.
Existing deficiencies result in the discharge of considerable amounts of untreated or partially treated
domestic and industrial wastewater to the New River, and the Alamo River is also threatened. The
project, as defined in IBWC Minute No. 288, involves the planning, design, and construction of
improvements to the Mexicali I system and a new Mexicali n system (which will replace or
augment the Gonzales-Ortega plant).
5) Status: In December 1994, the U.S. proposed the preparation of a facility plan which will
analyze the technical, financial, and environmental aspects of the available project alternatives. The
facility plan would examine options for the long-term solution to the wastewater problem, but
short-term projects, which are relatively inexpensive and certain to be pan of the overall solution
(quick fixes), will be identified and constructed immediately. In February 1995, Mexico submitted a
facility plan to the U.S. for review. One short-term project, to build a weir across the Alamo River
at the border, has been announced by Mexico.
6) Schedule: The U.S. will soon respond to Mexico's facility plan. No schedule has been identified
for construction of the Alamo River weir.
7) U.S. Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1280
Bill Ruth, USIBWC, 915-534-6690
Bart Christensen, SWRCB, 916-227-4426
Phil Gruenberg, RWQCB 7, 619-346-7491
11
-------
COLORADO RIVER SYSTEM MONITORING
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose is to determine the quality of selected waters in the
Colorado River system. Objectives include determining the levels of toxic pollutants in the lower
Colorado River and in the New River, as well as monitoring of the New River for conventional
pollutants. Mexico has requested monitoring of the lower Colorado River due to concern about the
quality of the water supply for Mexicali and Tijuana. Monitoring of the New River will help
document progress resulting from implementation of the Mexicali wastewater project. Interest in
New River monitoring was elevated when Imperial County and a coalition of environmental justice
groups filed petitions under TSCA.
2) Funding: EPA has dedicated $769,000 for monitoring of the Colorado and New Rivers.
3) Partners: EPA funds have been awarded to USGS, California Regional Water Quality Control
Board (Colorado River Basin Region), and University of California at Davis. Additional U.S.
partners include USIBWC, USBR, USFWS, CA Department of Fish and Game, and State of
Arizona (Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Game and Fish). Mexican partners
include MxIBWC and CNA.
4) Description: A binational program for monitoring toxic pollutants in the Colorado and New
Rivers has been developed. Three sites on each river will be monitored. For the U.S., USGS will
analyze water and sediment samples for specific toxic pollutants, UC Davis will analyze water
samples for toxicity, and CA Fish and Game will analyze fish tissue samples for bioaccumulation.
The U.S. is undertaking several related monitoring efforts. The Regional Board is continuing its
monitoring of the New River at the international boundary for heavy metals and conventional
pollutants. UC Davis is collecting samples along the length of the New River and will use the
results to develop a model which will predict the behavior of toxic organic pollutants in river
sediments and water. EPA will also fund the preparation of bilingual reports summarizing and
synthesizing existing water quality data for the New and lower Colorado Rivers.
5) Status: EPA funding has been awarded to USGS, the Regional Board, and UC Davis. UC
Davis collected its initial samples in February 1995. Binational sampling of the New River ocurred
in March/April. Discussions are underway with Mexico on expanding the Regional Board effort
into Mexico.
6) Schedule: Binational sampling of the Colorado River will occur in June 1995. Second round
binational sampling is scheduled for November 1995.
7) U.S. Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1280
Roy Schroeder, USGS, 619-637-6824
Bill Ruth, USffiWC, 915-534-6690
Phil Gruenberg, RWQCB 7, 619-346-7491
12
-------
TIJUANA WASTF.WATER
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose is to provide adequate wastewater treatment for the
Tijuana, Baja California, area, to reduce a serious existing threat to public health and the
environment. Objectives include construction of the South Bay International Wastewater
Treatment Plant (ITP), Land Outfall, and Ocean Outfall and implementation of an effective
pretreatment program.
2) Funding: EPA has received $239,400,000 for planning, design, and construction of the ITP and
outfall facilities. The City of San Diego will pay a pro rata share (40% for the ocean outfall) for its
use of the outfall facilities. The State of California has contributed $5,300,000 for the outfall
facilities. Mexico will contribute funds to the ITP in the amount it would have spent to construct
its own plant in Mexico. Current estimates indicate that sufficient funds are available to construct
the advanced primary treatment plant and ocean outfall, but funding may not be sufficient for the
canyon collectors and secondary treatment plant.
3) Partners: Primary U.S. partners include USIBWC, State of California (SWRCB), and City of
San Diego. Mexico is participating through MxIBWC.
4) Description: Raw sewage from Tijuana contaminates the Tijuana River and results in adverse
impacts to the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve and quarantine of U.S. beaches.
IBWC Minute No. 283 calls for the construction of the ITP and outfall facilities to supplement
Tijuana's existing treatment plant. This construction, in conjunction with improvements in
Tijuana's collection system, will eliminate the dry-weather contamination of the river. Three types
of structures will be constructed: canyon collectors (to convey renegade sewage flows from canyons
which drain to the U.S. to the ITP); the ITP; and the outfall pipelines. Minute No. 283 also calls
for Mexico to develop and implement an effective pretreatment program. The City of San Diego
has been working with the City of Tijuana on program development.
Trends: The level of contamination of the Tijuana River has decreased due to significant
improvements made by Mexico to its wastewater system. In the mid 1980's Mexico constructed a
wastewater conveyance and treatment system in Tijuana, in accordance with Annex 1 to the La Paz
Agreement and IBWC Minute No. 270. Although the project was a major step in addressing the
Tijuana sanitation problem, Tijuana's collection system was inadequate and raw sewage continued to
reach the Tijuana River. Tijuana was growing rapidly and flows of raw sewage in the river reached
the 10-13 million gallons per day level by 1991. IBWC oversaw construction of a diversion
structure and pump station in Tijuana to remove sewage from the river channel, which was
completed in October 1991. During dry weather, sewage is now removed from the river and
pumped into Tijuana's collection system. Due to improvements in the collection system, dry
weather sewage flows in the river have been reduced to about 1-3 million gallons per day.
5) Status: The primary treatment phase of the ITP is under construction. The secondary
treatment facilities and canyon collectors are being designed. The South Bay Land Outfall has been
constructed and design of the ocean outfall has been completed. Cooperation on pretreatment
program development is being discussed by IBWC.
13
-------
6) Schedule: Construction of the advanced primary treatment plant will be completed in February
1997. Design of secondary treatment facilities will be completed in December 1995. Canyon
collector design will be completed by October 1995. Construction of the ocean outfall will begin
in July 1995 and be completed in May 1998.
7) U.S. Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1280
Bill Ruth, USmWC, 915-534-6690
Bart Christensen, SWRCB, 916-227-4426
14
-------
TTJTTATVA.SAN DIEGn/MFXTr.ATJ.TMPFmAT VATTFV ATR
1) Purpose and Objectives: Develop and operate six station networks in Tijuana and Mexicali for
nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulates (PM-10), lead, selected airborn
toxic compounds, and meteorological parameters (e.g., wind speed/wind direction). These efforts
are intended to lay the foundation for an air quality management program with overall goals of
determining ambient air pollution concentrations, apportioning sources and their relative impacts,
recommending cost-effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance in the long-term.
2) Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster State and local involvement, the following grants are
in the process of being awarded to the California Air Resources Board (GARB): 1) $300,000 for
Tijuana Air Monitoring; 2) $200,000 for the Tijuana Air Toxics Monitoring and Analysis; and 3}
$400,000 for Mexicali-Imperial Air Monitoring. Funds include resources for a Border Coordinator
position at the CARB.
3) Partners: Primary U.S. partners are CARB, San Diego Air Pollution Control District, Imperial
Valley Air Pollution Control District, and City of Nogales, Arizona. Primary Mexican partners are
INE and PROFEPA in Mexico City and Baja California.
4) Description: We all pay, individually and as a community, an immense price for polluted air,
both in terms of our health and our economy - in lost work days, diminished job performance,
crop damage, reduced property values and increased health costs. Given the physical, demographic,
vehicular traffic, and industrial characteristics of the Tijuana-San Diego airbasin, there is an
immediate need to evaluate levels of targeted air pollutants. Annex V to the 1983 La Paz
Agreement directs EPA and INE to assess the causes of and develop solutions to air quality
problems in border sister cities. In addition to the La Paz Agreement directives, the Clean Air Act
directs EPA, in coordination with Mexican agencies, to monitor and improve air quality along the
border.
The Tijuana-San Diego and Mexicali-Imperial Valley projects represent a continuation of efforts to
complete and operate the Tijuana air monitoring network, initiate monitoring in Mexicali, purchase
equipment to complete and operate the Mexicali network, analyze samples, quality assure data, and
provide overarching technical support.
5) Status: • CARB has procured the ambient monitoring instruments, instrument racks
and will be acceptance testing the equipment.
• The California-Baja California Technical Sub-workgroup of the Binational
Air Workgroup has met regularly to discuss this project.
• In response to a Request for Proposal, the Sub-workgroup has selected a
contractor to provide technical support in the installation, operation and
maintenance of the network.
i
6) Schedule: The sub-workgroup will be meeting in April to discuss a draft workplan for the
project including roles and responsibilities, schedule and data collection and exchange.
7) U.S. Contacts: Bill Jones, EPA Region 9 Caspar Torres, Imperial County
Bill Oslund, CARB Don White, San Diego
15
-------
PRTETA-DOUGLAS AIR PROGRAMS
1) Purpose and objectives: Initiate a paniculate matter (PM-10)/air toxics study with an overall
goal of determining ambient air pollution concentrations, apportioning sources and their relative
impacts, recommending cost-effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance in the
long-term.
2) Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster State and local involvement, a $150,000 FY95 grant
has been awarded to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). These funds
include support for a ADEQ Border Air Coordinator.
3) Partners: INE and PROFEPA, the State of Sonora and the City of Nogales, Sonora, ADEQ
4) Description: We all pay, individually and as a community, an immense price for polluted air,
both in terms of our health and our economy - in lost work days, diminished job performance,
crop damage, reduced property values and increased health costs. Given the physical, demographic,
vehicular traffic, and industrial characteristics of the Douglas-Agua Prieta airbasin, there is an
immediate need to evaluate levels of targeted air pollutants. Annex V to the 1983 La Paz
Agreement directs EPA and INE to assess the causes of and develop solutions to air quality
problems in border sister cities. In addition to the La Paz Agreement directives, the Clean Air Act
authorizes EPA, in cooperation with counterpart Mexican agencies, to monitor and improve air
quality in regions along the border.
A total of four sites measuring PM-10, selected air toxics and meteorological parameters will operate
on the both sides of the border.
5) Status: A draft workplan has been developed.
6) Schedule: A rough emissions inventory will be developed and sampling sites located starting in
August 1995 with an aim for completion by the end of the year. Actual sampling is scheduled to
begin on February 1, 1996 with a winter intensive study to be undertaken October 1, 1996 through
February 1, 1997. A final report is expected to be completed by July 1, 1997.
7) U.S. Contacts: Gerardo Monroy, ADEQ
Bill Jones, EPA
16
-------
AMffOS MORALES AIR PROGRAMS
1) Purpose and objectives: Complete the ongoing particulate matter (PM-10)/air toxics study with
an overall goal of determining ambient air pollution concentrations, apportioning sources and their
relative impacts, recommending cost-effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance
in the long-term.
2) Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster State and local involvement, a $300,000 FY95 grant
has been awarded to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). These funds
include support for a ADEQ Border Air Coordinator.
3) Partners: INE and PROFEPA, the State of Sonora, the City of Nogales, Sonora, ADEQ
4) Description: We all pay, individually and as a community, an immense price for polluted air,
both in terms of our health and our economy - in lost work days, diminished job performance,
crop damage, reduced property values and increased health costs. Given the physical, demographic,
vehicular traffic, and industrial characteristics of the Ambos Nogales airbasin, there is an immediate
need to evaluate levels of targeted air pollutants. Annex V to the 1983 La Paz Agreement directs
EPA and INE to assess the causes of and develop solutions to air quality problems in border sister
cities. In addition to the La Paz Agreement directives, the Clean Air Act authorizes EPA, in
cooperation with counterpart Mexican agencies, to monitor and improve air quality in regions along
the border.
A total of six sites measuring PM-10 and meteorological parameters and four sites measuring
selected air toxics are operating on the both sides of the border. Sites have been operating since
April 1994.
5) Status: All sites ran on a winter intensive (3-day cycle) sampling schedule from October 5, 1994
through February 19 and have subsequently returned to the regular (6-day cycle) sampling schedule.
6) Schedule: The monitoring portion of the study will terminate on June 30, although 2 base sites
will remain in place for ongoing measurement of PM-10 and meteorological parameters. Emissions
inventory development will begin in March and continue through July. Subsequent to the
completion of these activities, a draft final report will be prepared by November 1 and will include
exposure/risk assessment, source attribution, and potential control strategies. A final report should
be ready by the end of the year.
7) U.S. Contacts: Gerardo Monroy, ADEQ
Bill Jones, EPA
17
-------
EMISSIONS INVENTORY METHODOLOGY PTT.OT PROJECT
1) Purpose and objectives: Design a methodology for the development of an emissions inventory
for Mexico, field test and refine methodology, and train Mexican air quality management officials in
the development of emission inventories.
2) Funding: The following 1995 grant has been awarded to the Grand Canyon Visibility Transport
Commission (GCVTC) of the Western Governor's Association (WGA): Phase I - $165,000; Phase E
- $200,000;
3) Partners in the Project: INE; GCVTC; Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission
(TNRCC); California Air Resources Board (GARB); and the Arizona Department of Environmental
Quality (ADEQ).
4) Description of the Project: The GCVTC and Mexico have common needs for emissions
inventory information. The GCTVC is sponsoring projects to develop an emission inventory for
areas, including Mexico, that potentially contribute to regional haze on the Colorado Plateau.
Mexico is conducting a variety of air quality planning efforts that will benefit from country-wide
emission information. In particular, INE is interested in developing a national methodology for
their emission inventory program.
Phase I of the project is the development of an emissions inventory methodology that can be used
by Mexican State air quality management officials. Phase n of the project will be to evaluate and
refine the methodology and to train Mexican officials in emission inventory development. This
project will eventually lead to the development of an improved inventory for Mexico.
5) Current Status: The final workplan has been developed and the contractor is finishing a needs
assessment of Mexico's emission inventory development capabilities and developing a draft
methodology.
6) Schedule: The technical advisory committee (see aforementioned list of partners) is tentatively
scheduled to meet in Mexico City in late April to review the draft methodology and discuss next
steps.
7) U.S. Contacts:
John Leary, GCVTC
Bill Jones, EPA - Region 9
Bill Kuykendal, EPA - OAQPS
Gary Neuroth, ADEQ
Carl Snow, TNRCC
18
-------
PMTfPIPES TRATNTNfi AND OUTREACH
1) Project Description: Provide bilingual training and outreach programs as well as ongoing
technical assistance on priority pesticides-related issues in the California-Baja California and Arizona-
Sonora border areas.
2) Funding: The following grants have been awarded: California Department of Pesticide
Regulation (CA DPR) - $75,000; and the Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission (AZ SPCC)
will receive a grant of $70,000.
3) Partners in the Projects: U.S. partners include DPR, and the AZ SPCC. Mexican partners
include the Secretariats for Social Development (SEDESOL), Agriculture and Water Resources
(SARH), and Health (SDS) as well as other relevant Mexican agencies.
4) Description of the Project: There are agricultural lands on both sides of the border utilized for
crop production. Growers in Mexico and the U.S. use significant quantities of pesticides in the
production of these crops, particularly for fruits and vegetables. Training and outreach is crucial in
light of the potential for health or environmental problems due to worker exposure and/or air and
water contamination.
In addition to day-to-day technical assistance and outreach, resources have been utilized to develop
and provide a number of training sessions including: the safe and effective use of pesticides,
recognition and management of pesticide poisoning symptoms for medical staff, and investigative
sampling techniques.
5) Current Status/Schedule: Ongoing.
6) U.S. Contacts: Nicholas Surjan, DPR
Bud Paulson, AZ SPCC
Bill Jones, EPA - Region 9
19
-------
PQT T Tmmvr PRFVRNTTON: SAN DTF.GQ.TITUANA
1) Purpose and Objectives: The project is designed to provide opportunities to focus on the
economic and environmental benefits associated with pollution prevention. It is designed as a
partnership between businesses and the San Diego County Environmental Health Services, and
EPA. The project will provide training and educational outreach programs to businesses on both
sides of the border, advocating a commitment to "environmental excellence."
2) Funds: $74,100
3) Partners: A wide range of governmental and business leaders from both sides of the border.
4) Description/Status: Information packets were sent to 36 businesses in San Diego County which
were listed as having maquiladora facilities in the Tijuana region. The packets contained a
description of the project and a brief application form to complete if the business wanted to
participate with the educational outreach component of the Tradex project. The mailing was
followed up by a telephone survey. A new list of 60 business has been used for a second mailing
and followup telephone survey.
Five of the companies contacted were very supportive of the program and said that they are ready
to participate. The first group of 5 companies will be offered free pollution prevention assessments
at their facilities in both San Diego and the Tijuana region. The remaining 60 will be invited to
participate in a U.S.-Mexico roundtable discussion to be held in the summer.
5) Schedule: Final list of businesses willing to participate in the assessments and/or the roundtable
- March 1995; initial visit to facilities - April; assessments along with written recommendations -
May-June 1995; Roundtable - End of July; Second Roundtable - Mid September; final report - End
of September.
6) U.S. Contacts: Linda Pratt, San Diego County Pollution Prevention
Donna Orebic, EPA - Region 9
Eileen Sheehan, EPA - Region 9
20
-------
MUNICTPAT. IANDFIT T PT OSURE TRAINING PROTECT
1) Purpose and Objectives: Assist federal, state and local authorities from Mexico with site-specific
training on closure of a municipal landfill. The training will primarily focus on how to prepare a
landfill closure plan and will use the Nogales, Sonora landfill as a case study. The overall goal of
this technical assistance project is to address health and safety concerns on both sides of the U.S. -
Mexico border caused by the old Nogales landfill.
2) Funds: The project budget is $139,000. EPA has entered into an Interagency Agreement with
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for technical assistance with this project. Most of the funds are
going to Harding Lawson Associates who is under contract with the Corps of Engineers.
3) Description: The Nogales, Sonora site is a municipal landfill located approximately two to three
miles south of the U.S. - Mexico border and the neighboring community of Nogales, Arizona.
During the last few years, various parties have expressed concerns to officials in Mexico and the
U.S. about the occurrence of fires at the Nogales, Sonora landfill. The migration of air emissions
from the landfill into Santa Cruz County, Arizona has been documented by local health officials.
Emergency health warnings have been issued by the County during certain intervals of burning.
The government of Mexico has constructed a new sanitary landfill for Nogales.
Construction of the new Nogales, Sonora landfill makes it possible to close the old landfill. At the
April, 1994 National Coordinator's meeting in Tucson, Arizona, EPA and SEDESOL agreed that
EPA will provide SEDESOL with technical assistance on closure of the existing landfill.
4) Status: A copy of an existing closure plan that was used for closure of the Nogales landfill has
been obtained from the City of Nogales. EPA and Harding Lawson Associates are currently
reviewing the closure plan. EPA plans to provide PROFEPA and the City of Nogales with an
analysis of the closure plan, including recommendations for next steps in the closure process.
5) Schedule: EPA will submit a report on the Nogales, Sonora landfill closure plan to PROFEPA
and the City of Nogales by April 15. The report will address health and safety issues related to
post-closure use of the landfill site. We will then work with PROFEPA and the City of Nogales to
plan a landfill closure training seminar and to identify additional needs for technical assistance at the
site.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S.-Mexico Border Team
Pat Zurick, Director, Santa Cruz County Health Department
Tibaldo Canez, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
21
-------
flTTJATTONAT. SAMPT TTSTfi AND ANALYSIS CAPACITY BUILDING
1) Purpose and Objectives: The goals of this project are to reach an understanding between the
U.S. and Mexico on sampling and analytical protocols, chain of custody procedures, quality
assurance/quality control procedures, and how best to provide testimony in enforcement
proceedings. In addition, this project will aim to improve the capacity of personnel on both sides
of the border to carry out these understandings.
2) Funds: The amount of funding and recipient have not yet been determined.
3) Description: The investigation and prosecution of transborder cases relating to transportation
and disposal of hazardous waste has been hampered by the different protocols and testing
procedures of the two countries. In addition, delayed communication between the U.S. and Mexico
regarding suspected illegal transportation of hazardous waste and lack of a norm for coordinating
cross-border evidence gathering has caused evidence to be lost. This project is intended to result in
increased cooperation and coordination between the two countries on all issues related to sampling,
analysis, evidence gathering and testimony.
4) Status: A work group is now being formed which will look at a variety of issues including: the
need to expand the "Guidelines for Repatriation of Hazardous Waste," improving field sampling
capacity on both sides of the border, improving lab capacity on both sides of the border, assessing
the compatibility between Mexico and U.S. sampling and analysis requirements, and assessing the
need for a binational laboratory. Region 9 has developed a draft "Proposal to Expand and Improve
Hazardous Waste Field Sampling and Lab Capacity along the U.S./Mexico Border" and is currently
seeking comments on the proposal.
5) Schedule: The work group for this project will finalize a proposal for presentation to the
Hazardous Waste Work Group and the Enforcement Work Group at the next Binational
Coordinator's meeting which is scheduled for some time in May 1995.
6) U.S. Contacts:
John Rothman, EPA Region 9, Office of Regional Counsel
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S. Mexico Border Team
Peter Husby, EPA Region 9, Environmental Services Branch
Larry Sperling, EPA HQ, OECA/IEP
John Misleh, County of San Diego, Hazardous Materials Management Division
Pam LePen, Cal-EPA, Department of Toxic Substances Control
Melanie Pierson, U.S. Attorney's Office, San Diego
22
-------
SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS TRAINING
1) Purpose and Objectives: To develop and implement a training program for border officials on
sampling and analysis of samples.
2) Funds: The budget for this project is $50,000.
3) Description: The investigation and prosecution of transborder cases relating to transportation
and disposal of hazardous waste has been hampered by the different protocols and testing
procedures of the two countries. In addition, there is a growing need to improve overall sampling
and analysis capacity on both sides of the border in order to achieve increased compliance and
enforcement under both country's hazardous waste laws. This training will cover topics such as
personal protection, sample collection and preservation, proper field QA/QC procedures, the chain
of custody process, procedures for analyzing samples, interpreting analytical results, and record
keeping and documentation of findings. We will work with local and state officials in California
and Arizona to develop and implement the course.
4) Status: We plan to enter into a cooperative agreement with the Western States Hazardous Waste
Project to conduct the training sessions. We have received a proposed course outline from the
County of San Diego which we have provided to the Western States Project.
5) Schedule: We have received a draft workplan from the Western States Project and will soon
commit the funds. We plan to conduct the first course in the San Diego/Tijuana area this summer
and to hold another training along the Arizona/Sonora border later in the year.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S.-Mexico Border Team
Peter Husby, EPA Region 9, Environmental Services Branch
Larry Sperling, EPA HQ, OECA/ffiP
John Misleh, County of San Diego, Hazardous Materials Management Division
Pam LePen, Cal-EPA, Department of Toxic Substances Control
Melanie Pierson, U.S. Attorney's Office, San Diego
23
-------
BAJA r AIJFORNTA MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE IANDFILL OPERATIONS TRAINING
1) Purpose and Objectives: Provide training on municipal solid waste landfill design, operations
and closure for officials and other interested parties in Baja California.
2) Funds: The budget for this project is $55,000. The recipient is Eastern Research Group who is
under contract to the Center for Environmental Research Information at EPA's Office of Research
and Development in Cincinnati.
3) Description: In November, 1993 EPA held a Seminar on the Design, Operation and Closure of
Municipal Solid Waste Landfills in Nogales, Sonora. Approximately 60 individuals from local, state
and federal agencies in Mexico attended the seminar. The course was based on an Office of
Research and Development seminar held across the U.S. after the RCRA Subtitle D landfill criteria
were promulgated. Over 90% of the attendees rated the seminar as either very good or excellent.
We now plan to replicate this successful training course for officials in Baja California.
4) Status: We have begun discussions with PROFEPA officials in Mexicali about course content
and logistics. We have also begun the process of selecting speakers for the seminar.
5) Schedule: We will hold the training course in Mexicali on June 22-23.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S. Mexico Border Team
24
-------
RECYCLING INITIATIVE
1) Purpose and Objectives: Identify ways to expand binational markets for recycled materials and
commodities.
2) Funds: $60,000 is available for this project. We have not yet selected a funding recipient.
3) Description: The public outreach goals of the IBEP addressed the need to involve the general
public in efforts to prevent illegal dumping and to foster pollution prevention and waste reduction.
In October, 1993 Regions 9 and 6 co-sponsored a conference held by the Southwest Public
Recycling Association to promote markets for recycled materials. The conference included a U.S.
Mexico border track that addressed recycling along the border and the impact of NAFTA on
border trade of recyclables.
With the passage of NAFTA, we would now like to look more closely at ways to promote
binational markets for recycled materials. While a great deal of trade in recycled materials and
products already occurs, the potential to expand existing markets is enormous. This project will
seek to assess current trade of recyclables across the border and identify obstacles to expanding such
trade. Ultimately, we would like to identify steps needed to stimulate markets for cross-border
trade of recyclables.
4) Status: We have begun discussions with the City of San Diego about the possibility of creating a
Binational Recycling Market Development Zone for the Cities of San Diego and Tijuana. The
general goal of such an endeavor would be to identify industrial areas within Tijuana that are
contiguous with the existing San Diego Recycling Market Development Zone, and work to attract
appropriate (i.e. non-hazardous waste) recycling facilities and recycled product manufacturers to the
binational area. This could be accomplished by creating a variety of incentives (e.g. permitting or
financing assistance) to help foster the growth of reuse and recycling industries within the Zone.
5) Schedule: The Cities of San Diego and Tijuana are currently exploring the possibility of putting
together a funding proposal to the EPA. EPA plans to discuss the project with San Diego and
Tijuana officials at a Binational Recycling Workshop to be held in San Diego in June.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S. Mexico Border Team
25
-------
nFPARTMFNT OF TOXTC SUBSTANCES CONTROL GRANT
1) Purpose and Objectives: Fund Border Coordinator position in the California Department of
Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to support implementation of the Border Plan in California, and
fund several specific border projects through the Coordinator.
2) Funds: DTSC has approximately $300,000 for border activities in FY 95. This figure may
fluctuate during the fiscal year. Approximately $300,000 has been proposed to support DTSC
border work in FY 96.
3) Description: The general activities being conducted under the grant are: 1) Serve as a liaison to
EPA on all significant border activities and issues; 2) Develop a DTSC strategy for border issues; 3)
Manage a contract with the County of San Diego to monitor the import/export of hazardous waste
shipments between California and Mexico and determine if these shipments conform with
applicable laws and regulations; 4) Increase technical support to federal, state and local agencies and
the public related to imports and exports of hazardous waste; and 5) Conduct complaint inspections
and provide technical assistance on criminal investigations within 100 km of the border or involving
import/export of hazardous waste from/to Mexico.
4) Status: The first quarterly report for the grant was submitted to the region in December. The
focus during the first quarter was on development of a communications protocol between EPA and
DTSC and development of a list of DTSC staff involved in border activities. We commented on
the report and asked that the second quarterly report include additional information on DTSC
Border Workgroup actions, activities of the Complaint Investigation Unit, and San Diego County
enforcement activities.
5) Schedule: We will receive the second quarter report from DTSC by February 15, 1995. We
will review the second quarter report in the latter pan of this month and have a mid-year meeting
with DTSC in March.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S. Mexico Border Team
Frances Schultz, EPA Region 9, California Project Officer
Pam LePen, Cal-EPA, Department of Toxic Substances Control
26
-------
ARIZONA DF.PARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY KRANT
1) Purpose and Objectives: Fund Border Coordinator position in the Arizona Department of
Environmental Quality (ADEQ) to support implementation of the border plan in Arizona, and one
and one half inspectors in Tucson and Nogales.
2) Funds: $214,300 was provided to ADEQ to support FY 95 border activities. For FY 96,
$285,700 has been proposed.
3) Description: In FY 94, ADEQ hired a new hazardous waste border coordinator and a
hazardous waste inspector for the Tucson office. The inspector will also coordinate emergency
responses. The major border tasks included in the FY 95 workplan are: TSD and LQG inspections,
hazardous waste complaints and referrals, technical support activities, formal and informal
enforcement and compliance activities, permits-related activities, import/export manifest tracking,
and participation in broader border program activities.
4) Status: We received a quarterly report on January 20, 1995. Activities during the first quarter
were limited due to the departure of the Waste Programs Manager from the Tucson office. ADEQ
is currently in the process of filling this vacancy.
5) Schedule: ADEQ border staff will focus in the second quarter on conducting surveys, including
on-site investigations, of the following facilities in the Nogales, Arizona area: small quantity
generators, conditionally exempt small quantity generators, used oil handlers and other facilities
potentially generating hazardous wastes. The next quarterly report is due April 20, 1995.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S. Mexico Border Team
Bridget Coyle, EPA Region 9, Arizona Project Officer
Tibaldo Canez, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
27
-------
FAJVTRONMENTAL JUSTICE BORDER COMMUNITY GRANTS
1) Purpose and Objectives: The purpose of the grants program is to provide financial assistance
and stimulate a public purpose by supporting projects for affected border communities that are
eligible under applicable statutory authorities and are working or plan to carry out projects to
address environmental justice issues. Funds can be used to develop a new activity or to
substantially improve the quality of existing activities.
2) Funds: $50,000 is available to fund two to three projects in FY 95. In FY 94 one $30,000 grant
was awarded to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality and one $8,000 grant was
awarded to Prescott College.
.3) Description: In its 1992 report, -Environmental Equity: Reducing Risk for All Communities,
EPA found that minority and low-income communities experience higher than average exposure to
toxic pollutants than the general population. The Office of Environmental Justice (OEJ) was
established in 1992 to help these communities identify and assess pollution sources, to implement
environmental awareness and training programs for affected residents, and to work with
community stakeholders to devise strategies for environmental improvements.
Fiscal year 1995 is the second year of the Environmental Justice Small Grants Program.
This year an additional $50,000 in grant funds is being made available through EPA Region 9
specifically for awards dealing with environmental issues of concern along the U.S. Mexican Border.
Priority for funding under this grant program will be given to community-based/grassroots
organizations whose projects will: 1) develop an environmental justice project, activity, method, or
technique that has wide application, 2) enhance the community's skills in addressing environmental
justice issues and problems, and 3) establish or expand environmental and public health information
systems for local communities.
In FY 94 EPA funded two border-related projects through this grants program. One grant
was awarded to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality for development of a video
about environmental and health issues along the border and one grant was awarded to Prescott
College to support development of Binational Teacher Education Workshops on environmental
education in Arnbos Nogales.
4) Status: Project proposals were due to EPA regional offices on February 4.
5) Schedule: EPA program officials will review, evaluate and select FY 95 grants by March 31,
1995. The grants will then be processed and awards will be made by May 31, 1995. Grantees
projects or activities will begin around June 1st.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, EPA Region 9, U.S.-Mexico Border Team
Lori Lewis, EPA Region 9, Environmental Justice Coordinator
28
-------
FNTFORrEMENT/HAZARDQUS WASTE SUWORKGROUPS
1) Purpose and objectives: To target and coordinate enforcement actions and to organize response
to and prevention of illegal transport of hazardous waste among federal, state and local enforcement
agencies on both sides of the border.
2) Funds: Only travel and interpretation expenses needed.
3) Partners: The California/Baja California group includes Cal EPA, Cal Attorney General, San
Diego Task Force (local, state and federal enforcement agencies), PROFEPA and, we hope, the
Procuraduria de la Republica (PGR) and the State of Baja California. The Arizona/Sonora group
will include Arizona Dept. of Environmental Quality, the Arizona Attorney General, U.S.
Attorney's Office, PROFEPA for Sonora and,.we hope, the PGR and the State of Sonora.
4) Description: These groups provide the means for targeting and coordinating enforcement in the
Region and organizing the prevention of and response to the illegal transport of hazardous waste
across the border. The contacts made at the group meetings will allow rapid response to violations
on either side of the border and will develop the trust necessary to coordinate binational
enforcement targeting and more effective prevention.
5) Status/Schedule: The group for California/Baja California had its first meeting more than one
year ago; the Arizona/Sonora group has not yet met. The groups were temporarily suspended
pending agreement on binational enforcement initiatives and the Mexican presidential elections. If
the Binational Enforcement and Hazardous Waste Workgroups reach agreements for action, the
subgroups will meet soon thereafter. We have anticipated at least two meetings for each group per
year.
6) U.S. Contacts:
Donna Orebic, Region 9
John D. Rothman, Region 9.
29
-------
RTMATTONAT rONFERENr.F ON ENVIRONMENTAL TAWS AND ENFORCEMENT
1) Purpose and objectives: To promote mutual understanding among lawyers and policy makers
of how each of our agencies and laws work and what motivates the behavior that each agency finds
so baffling in the other.
2) Funds: $65,000 from AC&C funds that have been awarded to ORC, Region 9.
3) Partners: Binational Enforcement Workgroup would sponsor the conference.
4) Description: This will be a 2-3 day conference based on the presentation of case studies by each
of the participants that demonstrate concretely how environmental law and enforcement function in
real contexts. The conference will be directed to lawyers and policy makers at USEPA.and the
Mexican Environmental Ministry "and allied environmental enforcement agencies (eg. Dept. of
Justice, Procuraduria General de la Republica, state agencies). If the conference is successful, it
could be repeated periodically.
5) Status/Schedule: The conference was to have followed presentation of Principles of
Environmental Enforcement, which has been delayed. The conference can take place anytime as
long as there can be four months notice in which to prepare case studies.
6) U.S. Contact: John D. Rothman, Region 9
30
-------
PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT
1) Purpose and Objectives: To present the training course to policy makers in the Mexican
Environmental Ministry and to representatives of public interest groups and the regulated
community.
2) Funds: $50,000 from US AID will pay for travel and expenses of presenters. Mexico will pay
expenses for participants and, probably, for interpreters.
3) Partners: US AID is funding the presentation of the course. Region 9 is taking the lead, with
assistance from OE and Region 6, in presenting the course.
4) Description: This is an intensive, 3-day course in fundamental principles for designing and
implementing environmental enforcement programs.
5) Status/Schedule: The start date has been postponed several times. It is now scheduled
tentatively for May 1995. If Mexico desires, we plan to present the course a second time, with
Mexican presenters assisting, and a third time, presented completely by Mexico. This will allow
Mexico to take over the course and use it independently.
6) U.S. Contact: John D. Rothman, Region 9
31
------- |