United States	Environmental Justice	908-F01001
Environmental Protection Region 8	April 2003
Anonru	PMF.P I
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^ Agency	ENF-EJ
Community Environmental
Awareness
Become the Eyes and Ears of Your Community

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction	1
1.1	Importance of Community Environmental Awareness	1
1.2	Purpose of This Handbook	1
1.3	Community Awareness: A Success Story	2
1.4	Helpful Environmental Awareness Tips	2
Chapter 2: Eyes and Ears of the Community	3
2.1	In Your Community. Air	3
2.2	Air Quality Resources	4
2.3	State Air Quality Agencies	4
2.4	In Your Community: Drinking Water	5
2.5	Drinking Water Resources	5
2.6	Drinking Water Agencies	6
2.7	In Your Community: Surface Water			6
2.8	Surface Water Quality Agencies	8
2.9	In Your Community: Pesticides	8
2.10	Pesticide Authorities	10
2.11	In Your Community: Solid and Hazardous Waste	11
2.12	Solid and Hazardous Waste Agencies	11
2.13	In Your Community: Homeland Security	12
2.14	Homeland Security Offices	13
2.15	Environmental Emergency Resources	14
2.16	Community Safety Programs	15
2.17	Suspicious Activity	16
Chapter 3: In Your Home	17
3.1	Radon	17
3.2	State Radon Authorities	18
3.3	Other Radon Resources	18
3.4	Lead	19
3.5	Lead Agencies	20
3.6	Asbestos	21
3.7	Asbestos Agencies	21
Chapter 4: General Contacts and Resources	22
4 1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency	22
4.2	State and Local Health and Environmental Protection Departments	22
4.3	Community Resources	23
4.4	Notes	24
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Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Importance of Community Environmental Awareness
You make it work! Individual citizens are
essential to the enforcement of our nation's
environmental laws. Governments and
environmental organizations do not have
the resources to be in every community all
the time. You are the eyes and ears of your
community. Tips from the public help target
scarce resources in areas where a potential
problem may exist. You are an essential
resource when it comes to solving
environmental problems.
Acting as an environmental monitor in your community works best when
you are informed about what constitutes an environmental concern,
where to report a potential threat, and how to obtain more information.
1.2 Purpose of This Handbook
This handbook provides basic environmental information and a collection of resources
useful to individual citizens. It gives you an idea of what to keep an eye out for in your
community, and where to turn if you suspect a problem.
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1.3 Community Awareness: A Success Story
What does it take to be the eyes and ears of a
community? For inspiration, we can look to an example
in Bon Carbo, Colorado, home to the Evergreen
Operating Corporation, a coal bed methane drilling
company.
In the spring of 1998, a community resident noticed that Evergreen
Operating Corporation appeared to be discharging polluted water into
local arroyos. He notified Southern Colorado Citizens United for
Responsibility to the Environment (C.U.R.E.), a local citizens' group.
After failed attempts to work with the Evergreen Corporation, C.U.R.E.
filed a citizen's suit againt Evergreen for violating the Clean Water
Act. The charges prompted inspections by the Environmental
Protection Agency, the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, and the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. These
inspections confirmed the Bon Carbo man's suspicions.
After two years of opposition by Evergreen, C.U.R.E. won a consent decree
against the company. To offset the penalty it faced, Evergreen agreed to treat the
water in had been polluting. Water discharged from the facility is now tested for
harmful pollutants under the company's new discharge permits.
This story demonstrates that citizens can and do make a
difference. It shows that community members can effectively
monitor their neighborhoods, helping government officials when
budgets are stretched thin. Although one person may not have the
time or resources to take on an entire industry, one person can start
the ball rolling by alerting community organizations and government
agencies to potential violations.
1.4 Helpful Environmental Awareness Tips
is helpful to record:
A detailed description of what you have observed
Day and time of the observation
How long the problem has been going on
The source of the problem, or the direction that it appears to
be coming from
Most importantly, report problems as soon as possible!
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Chapter2:
Eves and Ears of the Community
2.11n Your Community: Air
Air pollution threatens of all living things on our planet.
Sources of air pollution include industrial smokestacks,
chemical plants, dry-cleaners, gas stations, automobiles,
trucks, buses, outboard motors, equipment engines, certain
paints, and various household products. The goal of the
Clean Air Act is to reduce the amount of pollution in our air.
Being aware of the quality of the air in your community
allows you to help keep the air clean and healthy, while you
help enforce the Clean Air Act.
Warning Signs: Things to Look Out for in Your Air
•	OPEN BURNING
In most communities, it is not permissible for individuals, businesses, construction
sites, etc., to burn trash within city limits.
•	UNUSUAL ODORS
Strange smells may indicate the burning or release of hazardous or organic
wastes.
•	UNUSUAL IRRITATION OR SENSITIVITY
Symptoms such as stinging in the eyes or soreness of the nose or throat may also
indicate the burning of wastes.
•	UNUSUAL BUSINESS ACTIVITY
As a neighbor, you know the normal operating procedures of nearby businesses.
Be on the look-out for unfamiliar behavior such as plants operating at night, excess
burning, etc.
•	SMOKING VEHICLES
Watch for vehicles that are visibly releasing pollutants. Remember that the colder
the outdoor temperature, the more a car will appear to be polluting due to
condensation of water.
State laws regulate the opacity, or
thickness, of smoke emitted into the air.
You can become certified to test the
opacity of facilities in your neighborhood
by attending a "Smoke School" training.
Contact your state air quality division for
more information.
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2.2 Air Quality Resources
The Air Quality Index tells you how clean or polluted your
air is and if you should be concerned about health problems.
The Index is reported in local newspapers and on radio and
television weather casts. You can also find it online at www.
epa.gov/airnow.
State Air Permits can tell you exactly what your industrial
and business neighbors are allowed to release into the air.
You can obtain copies of state air permits by contacting your
state air quality agency (listed below).
EPA's Energy Star Program promotes improved air quality through energy
conservation at home and at work. Find out more about it by calling the Energy Star
Hotline at 888-STAR-YES (888-782-7937) or by visiting www.energystar.gov.
2.3 State Air Quality Agencies
COLORADO	(303)692-3100
Department of Health and Environment,
Air Pollution Control Division
MONTANA	(406) 444-4964
Department of Environmental Quality,
Air Quality Bureau
NORTH DAKOTA	(701) 328-5188
State Department of Health,
Division of Air Quality
SOUTH DAKOTA	(800) 438-3367
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Air Quality Program
UTAH	(801) 975-4009
Department of Environmental Quality,
Division of Air Quality
WYOMING	(307) 777-7391
Wyoming Air Quality Division
U.S. EPA	(303)312-6776
Region 8 Air Program Contact
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2.4 In Your Community: Drinking Water
The Safe Water Drinking Act (SWDA) protects human health by
setting standards for the water that we drink. Many people get their
drinking water from public water sources that are protected by
SWDA. Others may get their drinking water from a private well.
Wells may or may not be regulated, depending on the number of
people using the well and the duration of use. It is important that you
know the source of your drinking water.
Warning Signs: Things to Look Out for in Your Drinking Water
•	Does the water look clear? Is it cloudy or colored?
•	How does the water taste? Is it metallic or bitter?
•	Is there an odor coming from the water in the tap or in the shower?
•	Does the water feel thick or slippery?
Remember: Just because you answered "yes" to one or more of the questions above
does not mean that your water is unsafe. Similarly, "no" answers to all of the above
questions do not guarantee safe water. There may be contaminants in your water that
cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. It is also possible that there are chemicals in your
water that are present in such small amounts that they do not pose a health risk.
As you can see, your water quality is determined by many factors. Testing is needed
to confirm the quality of the water. If you would like to have your drinking water
tested, the EPA recommends using a state-certified laboratory. To find an appropriate
laboratory, look online at www.epa.gov/safewater/faq/sco.html. If you want to know
what is in your drinking water, check your annual water quality report from your water
supplier or call the water supplier directly.
2.5 Drinking Water Resources
Look on your water bill or in the "Government Pages" in your phone book under "City"
to find information about your local water source and treatment plant.
EPA's publication "Water on Tap: A Consumer's Guide to the
Nation's Drinking Water" clarifies how regulators and the water'
industry provide safe drinking water. It also explains how to get
involved in the effort to protect our drinking water. To order a
copy of this publication, call (800) 426-4791 or send your name,
address, and a request for the Guide to: Water on Tap, Consumer
Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81009. You can also access the
Guide on the Internet at www.epa.gov/ogwdw/wot/ontap.html.
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2.6 Drinking Water Agencies
COLORADO
Drinking Water Program
MONTANA
Public Water Supply
NORTH DAKOTA
Drinking Water Program
SOUTH DAKOTA
Drinking Water Program
UTAH
Division of Drinking Water
WYOMING
Wyoming Drinking Water Program, U.S. EPA in Denver, CO
EPA SAFE DRINKING WATER HOTLINE
(303) 692-3500
(406) 444-5315
(701)328-5210
(605) 773-3754
(801) 536-4188
(303) 312-6312
(800) 426-4791
2.7 In Your Community: Surface Water
The Clean Water Act (CWA) protects much of our nation's surface water, including
lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, and coastal waters. The CWA is also one of several
laws that regulates the treatment of wastewater.
Policing surface water quality in your neighborhood
can be difficult because many of the things that affect
water quality (chemicals, nutrients, aquatic life) are
not easily detected. However, community members
should be aware of the condition of their local lakes,
rivers, streams, and wetlands. Citizens can also
monitor the stormwater runoff in their area which,
unless regulated, can flow untreated into bodies of
water.
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Warning Signs: Things to Look Out for in Your Surface Water
•	PET WASTE
If pet waste travels into surface waterbodies that provide drinking water, it can be a
direct source of bacteria in water systems. To avoid this, pick up after your pet
and ask your neighbors to do the same.
•	DUMPING OF HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS
If chemicals such as motor oil, antifreeze, and paint are dumped on the ground or
on parking lots, they can eventually make their way into nearby water systems.
Many larger cities have recycling facilities that accept used motor oil and
antifreeze.
. DEAD FISH
Large numbers of dead fish can be an indicator of unnatural
pollutants in a lake or stream.
•	PIPES DRAINING DISCOLORED WATER
Be on the lookout for discolored or odorous water entering your local lakes and
rivers.
•	STAINS OF STRANGE COLORS
Stains on river or lake shores (except black or green, which can be natural) may
be an indication of unnatural pollutants.
•	ALGAL BLOOMS
Some algal blooms (excess growth of algae) are natural, but they can also occur
when too many nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, enter a water
system. Be aware of any algal blooms occurring near drainage pipes, specifically
pipes that drain from a sewage treatment plant.
. FEEDLOT WASTEWATER / LIVESTOCK IN WATER
If animal waste enters a water system through feedlot runoff or directly from
livestock, it can be a direct source of bacterial contamination.
. DUMPING OF PAINT OR CARPET CLEANER WASTE
If you have painters or carpet cleaners at your home, watch how
they dispose of their wastewater, since it is illegal for either of
these operations to dump their wastewater into storm sewers.
•	MIDNIGHT DUMPERS
Take note of trucks or other vehicles backed up to remote creeks
and ditches late night.
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2.8 Surface Water Quality Agencies
COLORADO
Water Quality Control Division
MONTANA
Water Quality Division
NORTH DAKOTA
Division of Water Quality
SOUTH DAKOTA
Surface Water Quality Program
UTAH
Division of Drinking Water
WYOMING
Water Quality Surface Water Standards
U.S. EPA
Surface Water Quality Database
(303) 692-3500
(406) 444-4806
(701)328-5612
(605) 773-3351
(801)536-4200
(307) 777-7081
(800) 424-9067
2.9 In Your Community: Pesticides
Pesticides are products used to protect food and lawns from
pests such as insects, rodents, weeds, molds, and bacteria.
Some pesticides can cause health problems at elevated
levels of exposure. Infants and children are especially
vulnerable to pesticide exposure because their bodies are
still developing. The most effective way for community
members to monitor pesticides is through an awareness of
how pesticides should be correctly applied.
The EPA regulates pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and
Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and assigns a registration number to each pesticide. If you
know a product's registration number, you can obtain application and safety
information online at the EPA Pesticides Program's Pesticide Product Label System at
http://oaspub.epa.gov/pestlabl/ppls.home. If you only know the pesticide name, go to
the EPA Pesticide Product Information Query Site at
www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/epa/epamenu.htm.
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Warning Signs: Things to Look Out for in Pesticide Use
If you see someone spraying a lawn or crops, it is not necessarily a cause for alarm.
You should be alarmed by:
•	OVER SPRAYING
Applying too much of a pesticide can cause it to travel onto other properties.
•	WINDY DAYS I DRIFTING
Wind and storms can blow pesticides into undesignated areas.
. PROXIMITY TO PEOPLE OR ANIMALS
Pesticides should not be used near people or animals.
•	PROXIMITY TO A WATER SYSTEM
Pesticides should not drain into or otherwise enter storm drains, ditches,
reservoirs, or other water sources.
•	DUMPING
Pesticides should not be poured onto the ground or into lakes, streams or
wetlands. Empty or half-empty bottles of pesticides should not be left lying around
where they are susceptible to accidental spills or where they can be reached by
children or animals.
Keep in mind that discussing your concerns about pesticide use with the responsible
party (individual, company, park service, etc.) may result in a quick and efficient
resolution of the problem by bringing the potential threat of misused pesticides to their
attention.
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2.10 Pesticide Authorities
COLORADO
Department of Agriculture, Pesticide Application Program
MONTANA
Department of Agriculture
NORTH DAKOTA
Department of Agriculture, Pesticide Enforcement
SOUTH DAKOTA
Department of Agriculture, Division of Agricultural Services,
Office of Agronomy Services
UTAH
Department of Agriculture, Division of Plant Industry
WYOMING
(800)	239-4141
(406) 444-3144
(701) 328-4756
(605) 773-4432
(801)538-7188
(307) 777-7324
Department of Agriculture, Technical Services
NATIONAL PESTICIDES TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK (800)858-7378
U.S. EPA OFFICE OF PESTICIDE PROGRAMS	(800) 490-9198
www.epa.gov/pesticides/food
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Meat and Poultry Hotline
USDA National Organic Program
www.usda.gov
U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
Outreach and Information Center
www.cfsan.fda.gov
(800) 535-4555
(202) 720-3252
(888) 723-3663
For additional information on pesticides, search the
ExToxNet Extension Service at http://ace.orst.edu/
info/extoxnet
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2.11	In Your Community: Solid and Hazardous Waste
Solid and hazardous waste exists as part of a community's
commerce and industry. This waste poses a potential health threat if
not properly handled. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) governs the management of solid and hazardous waste.
Warning Signs: Things to Look Out for in Your Community
•	VACANT LOTS
Illegal dumping tends to happen where there are no buildings or people. Be on the
look-out for accumulation of wastes, especially pesticide containers, paint cans,
used oil, unmarked drums, and stacks of tires or batteries.
•	UNUSUAL BUSINESS ACTIVITY
Late-night activity or an accumulation of drums on a property may be cause for
concern.
•	TANKER TRUCKS
Trucks parked in areas away from commercial or industrial activity may be
dumping hazardous wastes into fields or other open areas.
2.12	Solid and Hazardous Waste Agencies
Your first point of contact should be your local public works department. Look in the
"Government Pages" of your phone book under "City" or "County" for a number to
report illegal dumping.
COLORADO	(303) 692-3300
Solid Waste and Incident Management Section
MONTANA
Air and Waste Management
Hazardous Waste Site Cleanup Bureau
NORTH DAKOTA
Division of Waste Management
SOUTH DAKOTA
Waste Management Program
UTAH
Division of Solid and Hazardous Waste
WYOMING
Solid Waste Program
Hazardous Waste (U.S. EPA, Region 8)
(406) 444-3490
(406) 444-1420
(701) 328-5166
(605) 773-3153
(801)538-6170
(307) 777-7752
(303) 312-6352
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2.13 In Your Community: Homeland Security
Because of recent tragic events, homeland security is one of the
nation's highest priorities, Each of us can play a role in safeguarding
our country from terrorism. The need for strengthening and securing our communities
and protecting human health and the environment is now more critical.
EPA Emergency Preparedness
Environmental emergencies involving the release, or threat of release,
of oil, radioactive materials, or hazardous chemicals may potentially
affect communities and the surrounding environment. Releases may be
accidental, as in the case of a spill at a chemical plant, or they may be
deliberate. Releases may also be caused by natural disasters. EPA
works with a variety of private and public entities to prevent, prepare for,
and respond to spills and other environmental emergencies. EPA's
Environmental Emergencies web site (www.epa.gov/epahome/
emergenc.htm) provides information about these activities, links to key
groups involved in contingency planning and response, and provides
information on how to report hazardous substance and oil spills.
Environmental Emergencies
An environmental emergency is a sudden threat to public health arising from the
release or potential release of oil, radioactive materials, or hazardous chemicals into
the air, land, or water. These emergencies may occur from transportation accidents,
events at chemical or other facilities using or manufacturing chemicals, or as a result
of natural or man-made disasters.
Chemical Spills I Accidents
In response to public concern about chemical spills and accidents, EPA created its
Chemical Emergency Preparedness Plan (CEPP) as a voluntary program to
encourage state and local authorities to identify hazards in their area and to plan for
potential chemical emergencies. This local planning complements emergency
response planning being carried out at the national and regional levels by National
Response Teams (NRTs). For more information about CEPP, go to www.epa.gov/
ceppo. To learn more about National Response Teams, go to www.nrt.org, or go to
www.nrt.org/epa/nrt/home.nsfto learn about EPA's role in NRTs.
Oil Spills
EPA's Oil Spill web site provides information about its program for
preventing, preparing for, and responding to oil spills that occur in and
around inland waters of the U.S. To learn more about this program, go to
www.epa.gov/oilspill/index.htm.
To report oil and chemical spills,
call the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802
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2.14 Homeland Security Offices
COLORADO	(303)273-1680
Colorado Department of Public Safety
MONTANA	(406) 841 -3911
Disaster and Emergency Services
www.discoveringmontana.com/homelandsecurity/css/default.asp
NORTH DAKOTA	(701)328-8100
Homeland Security / Emergency Management
www. state. nd.us/dem/HomeSec. html
SOUTH DAKOTA	(866) 466-5263
Homeland Security
www.state.sd.us/homeland
UTAH	(800) 753-2852
Comprehensive Emergency Management
www.cem.utah.gov
WYOMING	(307) 772-5234
NATIONAL CONTACTS
Homeland Security
http://www.whitehouse.gov/homeland
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2.15 Environmental Emergency Resources
vljj/
In general, responsibilities for responding to environmental
emergencies are spread across the federal, state, and local sectors,
depending on the size and type of emergency. Those involved
include the environmental, emergency management, public safety,
and public health agencies of all three levels of government.
The Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Prevention Office (CEPPO) was
created by EPA in 1985 to help build programs to respond to and prevent chemical
accidents. For more information, go to www.epa.gov/ceppo.
Area Contingency Committees consist of regional EPA representatives who
specifically plan for oil spills. To learn more, go to www.epa.gov/oilspill/conting.htm.
The Federal Radiological Preparedness Group consists of 17 federal departments
and agencies who respond to radiological emergencies under the Federal
Radiological Emergency Response Plan (FRERP). For details, go to
www.epa.gov/radiation/rert.
+	The American Red Cross is American's largest nonprofit
American humanitarian organization. Each year it helps people
Red Cross prevent, prepare for, and cope with emergencies. For
more information on the American Red Cross, go to
Together, we eon save a life www. redcross. org.
The National Response Team (NRT) includes fifteen federal
agencies responsible for preparing for, or responding to, major
oil or hazardous chemical emergencies. EPA is the chair of the
National Response Team. Corresponding regional teams are in
each of the ten EPA regions. For more information, go to

www.nrt.org.
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2.16 Community Safety Programs
Neighborhood Watch Program
For three decades, in cities around the country, neighbors
have banded together to create Neighborhood Watch
Programs. They understand that the active participation of
neighborhood residents is a critical element in community
safety. Through a simple willingness to be on the look-out for
suspicious activity in their community and to report that activity
to authorities, residents take a major step toward reclaiming
high-crime neighborhoods, as well as making people in all
areas of a city or town feel more secure and less fearful.
In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, the need for strengthening and securing our
communities has become even more critical. President Bush has announced that,
with the help of the National Sheriffs' Association, the Neighborhood Watch Program
will be taking on a new significance. Under this new program, community residents
are provided with information on how to recognize signs of potential terrorist activity
and how to report that activity. By participating in this program, citizens become a
critical element in the detection, prevention, and disruption of terrorism.
Many neighborhoods already have Neighborhood Watch programs that are vibrant
and effective. For those that do not, you can learn more by visiting the Neighborhood
Watch Program web site at www.nnwi.org. For additional information on the role of
Neighborhood Watch Groups in Homeland Security, go to www.usaonwatch.org.
Citizens Corps
On April 8, 2002, President Bush released "Citizen Corps: A Guide for Local Officials"
and asked local communities across the country to start Citizen Corps Councils.
These programs initiate local citizen participation by developing community action
plans, assessing possible threats, and identifying local resources. These Councils
consist of various leaders from local government, including those from emergency
management and first responder agencies, community volunteer and faith-based
organizations, and other relevant sectors.
You can learn about these Councils by going to www.citizencorps.gov. Even if your
community has not yet formed a Council, there
may be other appropriate ongoing programs in
your area. We suggest you contact your
mayor's office, or another local official, to
express your interest in having a Citizen Corps
in your community and to find out what
activities may already be underway.

Alt SUSPICIOUS PERSONS AND AMES
ARE IMMEWSTELYREPORTIOTO
OUR SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT
NEIGHBORHOOD


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2.17 Suspicious Activity
What Is Suspicious Activity?
Be alert if you observe someone engaging in any of the following activities, especially
if the individual is a stranger to the area:
•	The individual is loitering on premises that may have toxic
materials present when the facility is closed for business.
•	The individual is loitering on or near a facility that may have a
chemical storage area.
•	The individual acts nervous, avoids eye contact, and / or
appears uneasy.
•	The individual is in a place that appears to be closed to the
public, and the individual appears not to be someone who
works for the entity.
Reporting Suspicious Activity to Law Enforcement
Authorities
If you see or witness suspicious activity near a facility that may have
toxic chemicals present, timely cooperation with authorities is crucial.
If you have noticed either of the following things, you should report it
to local authorities:
•	Any home or business break-ins.
•	Any dumping taking place when a facility is closed or in a place
not designated for dumping.
If you can safely get a description of suspicious individuals and / or vehicles, including
license plate number, provide this to the police as well. The more information they
have, the better they can respond to your concern.
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Chapter 3:	In
3.1 Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas produced from the natural decay of
uranium, which is found in nearly all soils. Radon enters homes
through cracks and other holes in the foundation and becomes a
problem when it gets trapped inside. Any home, whether new or
old, drafty or tightly sealed, may have a radon problem. The
measurement standard for radon is picocuries per liter (pCi/L).
Average radon levels are approximately 0.4 pCi/L outdoors and
1.3 pCi/L indoors. The maximum standard set by the EPA is 4.0
pCi/L. Most homes can be reduced to 2.0 pCi/L by sealing cracks
in floors or walls, or by using pipes and fans to redirect radon gas. However, no level
of radon is completely safe. The Surgeon General has warned that radon is a leading
cause of lung cancer in the United States, second only to smoking. For general
information about radon, go to www.epa.gov/iaq/radon.
Testing for Radon
The only way to find out if your home has elevated levels of radon is to perform a test.
Any test should meet EPA's testing program requirements or be state-certified.
. SHORT-TERM TEST
•	Takes between 2 and 90 days (depending on the test) to get results
•	Costs $15-$60
•	Available at some large hardware stores, by mail through your state radon
office, and for rent by some radon contractors
. LONG-TERM TEST
•	Takes more than 90 days to get results
•	Costs approximately $35
•	More accurate than the short-term test
Once the test is performed, the results must be read by a laboratory or contractor.
The cost for this service may be included in the cost of the test; otherwise, it is usually
between $15 and $55. An acceptable laboratory should
be listed on the test package.
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3.2 State Radon Authorities
COLORADO
Department of Public Health and Environment
Radon Management Program	(303) 692-3090
MONTANA
Planning, Prevention, and Assistance Division	(406) 444-6697
NORTH DAKOTA
Department of Health,	(701) 328-5188
Division of Environmental Engineering
SOUTH DAKOTA
Division of Air Quality	(605) 773-3151
UTAH
Division of Radiation Control	(801) 536-4250
WYOMING
Wyoming Radon Program	(800) 458-5847
3.3 Other Radon Resources
Local Certified Radon Inspectors
Call your state radon office for a contact list, or go online at www.radongas.org for a
detailed list of certified inspectors in your area.
U.S. EPA
EPA's Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse can provide you with information
and brochures on radon gas, health risks, and reduction of radon in homes. You can
call the Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse at 1-800-438-4318 or write to
them at P.O. Box 37133; Washington D.C. 20013-7133 for information or to order
brochures. Listed below are several of the EPA Radon publications accessible online
at www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/pubs/index.html. Many of
these publications are available in Spanish as well.
A Citizen's Guide to Radon
Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon
Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction
Radon—A Physician's Guide
Radon in Schools
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3.4 Lead
Lead can be found in dust, paint, soil, drinking water, or food. Exposure to lead poses
a health risk, especially to certain vulnerable populations.
Who Should Be Concerned about Lead?
• THOSE WHO LIVE IN OLDER HOMES
Homes built prior to 1978 may contain leaded paint, even if they have been
repainted.
. FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN OR PREGNANT WOMEN
The long-term effects of lead exposure in a child include learning disabilities,
decreased growth, hyperactivity, impaired hearing, brain damage, and even death.
Lead can pass through pregnant women to their fetus.
. THOSE WHO HAVE ALREADY BEEN EXPOSED TO LEAD
Lead can be stored in the body for many years. The greater the exposure, the
greater the change of lead-related illness, including reproductive problems, high
blood pressure, digestive problems, nerve disorders, memory
and concentration problems, and muscle and joint pain.
Know Your Rights!
LANDLORDS have to disclose if they know, do not know that lead
hazards exist in rental space before a lease takes effect. They must
also disclose if it is unknown whether or not lead hazards exist.
SELLERS have to disclose known or unknown information on lead-based paint and
other lead hazards before selling a house. Sales contracts must include a disclosure
form about lead-based paint. Buyers have up to 10 days to check for lead hazards.
RENOVATORS have to distribute an informational pamphlet before starting work.
Learn More about Lead
A simple blood test can detect high levels of lead in the body. Call your doctor or local
health clinic to find out whether a test is recommended for you or your children. Be
sure to ask if the cost of the test if covered by a health screening plan.
For information about lead in your plumbing, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water
Hotline at 1 -800-426-4791. If you are interested in having your plumbing tested, call
your local health department or water supplier to find out how to get this done.
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3.5 Lead Agencies
NATIONAL LEAD INFORMATION CENTER
Information on temporarily reducing lead hazards,
contacts for professional home testers, and
abatement contractors in your area.
COLORADO
Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
MONTANA
Division of Planning, Prevention, and Assistance
NORTH DAKOTA
Department of Health, Division of Air Quality
SOUTH DAKOTA
Department of Health and Environmental Control
UTAH
Lead-Based Paint Program
WYOMING
Preventative Medicine Division
U.S. EPA
www.epa.gov/lead
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING
AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
www.hud.gov/lead
LEAD HOTLINE
Lead Testing
Professionals are recommended for home testing and
abatement. Home test kits are not always accurate, and
removal can generate large amounts of lead dust. Call your
state lead agency or your local health department to find out
if testing can be done for free. Otherwise, look in your local
phone book under "Lead Detection and Removal" or contact
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Lead Hotline (listed above). Testing and abatement costs
vary, so you may want to call several places for estimates.
(800) 424-LEAD
(800) 424-5323
(800)	886-7689
(406) 444-6697
(701)328-5188
(605) 773-3368
(801)	536-4451
(307) 777-6015
(800) 227-8917
(202) 755-1785
(888) 532-3547

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3.6 Asbestos
Asbestos can be found in many parts of the home, including interior and exterior
surfaces and insulation. Asbestos that is properly sealed or that is non-friable
(meaning that it cannot be crushed by hand pressure) does not pose a health hazard.
However, exposure to friable asbestos (asbestos that can be reduced to dust with
hand pressure), which releases tiny fibers into the air, can cause health problems.
Among the health threats posed by friable asbestos are lung cancer, asbestosis (a
chronic, progressive lung disease), and mesothelioma (cancer of the lung and chest
cavity or of the abdominal wall). Symptoms from asbestos exposure generally do not
appear for 10 to 30 years after exposure, and no safe level of exposure is known.
The only way to tell for sure if a material is safe is to have it analyzed in a laboratory.
Certified laboratories are listed in the yellow pages under "Laboratories Analytical."
Removal of asbestos should not be attempted by anyone but a professional. To find a
qualified professional, look under "Asbestos Abatement" in your yellow pages. Be
aware that you may be required to notify authorities in your area before you remodel,
dismantle, or demolish your home, in order to minimize potential asbestos exposure.
3.7 Asbestos Agencies
COLORADO
Asbestos Program,
Department of Public Health and the Environment
(303) 692-3179
MONTANA
Asbestos Control Program, Air and Waste Management Division,
Department of Environmental Quality
(406) 444-2690
NORTH DAKOTA
Asbestos Control Program, Division of Air Quality
Department of Health
(701)328-5188
SOUTH DAKOTA
Asbestos Program, Department of Waste Management,
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
(605) 773-3153
UTAH
Hazardous Air Pollutants Section, Division of Air Quality
Department of Environmental Quality
(801) 536-4000
WYOMING
Lead Project, Department of Health
(800) 458-5847
U.S. EPA
Indoor Air Quality Hotline
www. epa. gov/asbestos
(800) 438-4318
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Chapter 4:
General Contacts and Resources
4.1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA web site contains large amounts of information on environmental issues and
laws in the U.S. For introductory information, go to www.epa.gov. For information
specific to Region 8, visit www.epa.gov/region8. To learn more about the major
environmental laws now in effect, visit www.epa.gov/epahome/laws.htm. For general
information about environmental violations and emergencies, go to www.epa.gov/
epahome/violations.htm. You can also contact the Region 8 EPA office by telephone
at 1-800-227-8917, or by mail at 999 18th Street, Suite 300; Denver, Colorado; 80202.
4.2 State and Local Health and Environmental Departments
Many environmental concerns, such as strange odors, household
chemical disposal, and smoking vehicles are handled by county or state
departments of health and / or environment. These departments can
direct you to the appropriate division for your particular concern. To find
the number of your local health department, look in the "Government
Pages" of your phone book under "County" or contact your public library.
State Departments of Health and I or Environment
COLORADO
Department of Public Health and Environment
MONTANA
Department of Environmental Quality
NORTH DAKOTA
Department of Health
Environmental Health Section
SOUTH DAKOTA
Department of Health
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
UTAH
Department of Environmental Quality
WYOMING
Department of Environmental Quality
(303) 692-2000
(406) 444-2544
(701) 328-2372
(701)328-5150
(605) 773-3361
(605) 773-3151
(801)536-4400
(307) 777-7937
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4.3 Community Resources
There are many private organizations that can provide resources, information, advice,
training, and assistance to community members and groups interested in their local
environment. Since each community's concerns are unique and each organization's
focus is slightly different, it may require a little research to find an organization that fits
your needs. The groups listed below are large organizations with the knowledge and
expertise to help you or connect you with others who can.
EARTH FORCE	www.earthforce.org
The focus of Earth Force is to empower young people to discover and implement
solutions to environmental issues in their communities. This organization has several
environmental education kits available on its web site, and it also provides training to
teachers.
Regional Office
2120 West 33rd Avenue
Denver, CO 80211
(303) 433-0016
Headquarters
1908 Mount Vernon, 2nd Floor
Alexandria, VA 22301
(703) 299-9400
LOKA INSTITUTE	www.loka.org
The Loka Institute provides training on how to be a successful community organizer.
It can also link you and your community to other training and resources: The Loka
Institute is located in Washington, D.C., and has no local contact. However, they can
be contacted by phone, mail, and email.
The Loka Institute, c/o ICTA
660 Pennsylvania Avenue, S.E., Suite 302
Washington, D.C. 20003
(301) 585-9398
Loka@Loka.org
SCORECARD	www.scorecard.org
This web site, which is maintained by the nonprofit group Environmental Defense
(ED), allows you to gather environmental data about your community. You can learn
about air and water quality, hazardous waste, lead, and other environmental hazards.
You can also visit Environmental Defense's main web site at
www.environmentaldefense.org.
ED Regional Office
2334 North Broadway
Boulder, CO 80304
(303) 440-4901
ED Headquarters
257 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10010
(212)505-2100
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SIERRA CLUB
www.sierraclub.org
The Sierra Club is a national environmental organization with an office in almost every
state. Local Chapter contact information can be found on the national web site or by
calling the national office.
A "Keeper" is an active eye-witness who ensures environmental laws are enforced,
responds to citizen concerns, educates the community, and pursues ways to improve
water quality. The Waterkeeper Alliance is located in New York. Its local offices are
organized not by state or region, but by the waterbodies they protect. To find an office
near you, contact the national office or visit the main Waterkeeper Alliance web site.
Waterkeeper Alliance
828 South Broadway, Suite 100
Tarrytown, NY 10591
(914) 674-0622
lnfo@waterkeeper.org
The above organizations represent only a fraction of the environmental and citizens
groups in the U.S. To learn about other organizations, visit www.webdirectory.com or
www.ceds.org.
National Office
85 Second Street, 2nd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105-3441
(415) 977-5500
WA TERKEEPER ALLIANCE
www.keeper.org
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4.4 Notes
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