United States Region 8
Environmental Protection Office of Public Awareness
Agency 1860 Lincoln Street
Denver, Colorado 80295
Profile of
Environmental
Quality
Region 8
Colorado
Montana
North Dakota
South Dakota
Utah
Wyoming
-------
Ten years ago, many of us witnessed the
birth of the national movement to protect
the environment. There were pioneering
environmentalists before that, of course,
but the national environmental protection
movement can be said to have begun in
earnest in 1970.
Few among us then had a clear
understanding of the real scope of the
problem or of the ultimate costs of
reclaiming a healthful, if not pristine,
environment. We found that there are
hundreds of problems, each with its own
cost in terms of environmental or human
health effects and dollars... each capable
of solution or management given the right
mix of regulation, technology, money and
commitment on the part of government,
business and individual citizens.
Local and global shortages of fuels and
other commodities have underscored the
constantly growing interdependence of
nations, regions and communities
We have learned the lessons stressed by
early environmentalists "everything is
connected to everything else and nothing
is free"
We have learned that, just as the problems
are the sum of actions of individuals, so
are the solutions. Reclaiming lost
environmental quality cannot be "we
versus they." It is an issue of vital
importance to us all
This report describes some of the
progress made since our first
environmental quality report in 1978 and
looks forward toward some of tomorrow's
challenges. We invite you to join us in
meeting those challenges
?r Lymmams
ona^Administrator
-------
Contents
Ten Years Ago... 5
Region 8 7
Environmental Programs 8
Indian Programs 10
Colorado 12
Montana 17
North Dakota 20
South Dakota 23
Utah 26
Wyoming 28
Benefits... Costs... Benefits... Costs... 31
The Next Ten Years 33
Suggested Reading 34
-------
-------
Ten Years
Ago...
Caught up as we so often become in the
pressing issues of the day, we sometimes
forget how far we've come in the past ten
years. Just reflect for a moment though...
Raw discharges of sewage and industrial
wastes into our waterways were
commonplace. Hundreds of such
discharges were halted in the early 1970's,
thousands more are now treated or
otherwise controlled.
Air pollution controls on large industrial
sources were usually minimal or non-
existent. Of more than one thousand such
sources in this six-state region, fewer than
70 are now out of compliance with
pollution control limits, and most of them
are on compliance schedules.
Auto emission controls were in their
infancy and provided minimal reductions
of exhaust pollution. Mileage, too, has
improved during the period.
Open burning dumps were common. Most
have now been closed or converted to
sanitary landfills carefully operated to
reduce their impact on the environment
and on public health.
Some extremely dangerous pesticides,
whose benefits could not compare to their
hazard to health or the environment, have
been removed from use. Others are
carefully controlled and can be applied
only by trained users.
Non-specific poisons, once widely used
on public lands to control predators for
stockmen whose herds grazed the land,
were banned.
The testing, evaluation and protection of
drinking water, historically handled well by
some suppliers, was broadened so an
increasingly mobile American public could
be reasonably assured of the safety of its
drinking water across the Nation.
Late in the decade, the program got
underway to protect Americans from the
growing threat of hazardous waste
disposal. We became aware that our
complex technology was producing ever-
growing quantities of increasingly
dangerous waste materials which, in many
cases, were being carelessly discarded.
Another program places increased
responsibilities on manufacturers of toxic
chemicals to prove the safety of their new
products before their introduction into
commerce.
Solutions to the ultimate control of
radioactive tailings piles (a legacy of past
uranium mining and milling) came closer
as agencies worked together to develop
engineering solutions and acceptable
public exposure standards for the twenty-
odd piles in the region.
The EIS system for evaluating the long
and short term impacts to the environment
of projects or decisions undertaken by
federal agencies or on public lands was
firmly established and has undergone
refinement and streamlining to make it
more effective and less obstructive.
Congress and the states turned legislative
attention to many related areas to protect
people from hazards in the workplace and
marketplace, to carefully control increased
production of coal, to protect endangered
species and historic treasures, wetlands
and floodplains, oceans and the upper
atmosphere.
To be fair, many environmental laws
had their precedents in the 50's or 60's
but to quote the President's Council
on Environmental Quality, "What was
different about legislative initiatives of the
70's was, first, they came in concert and
second, by and large, they had teeth."
The 10th Annual Report of the Council on
Environmental Quality also mentions that
this country's Gross National Product
increased approximately 30 percent during
the 70's (about the same as during the
60's) but the increase in the gross amount
of "conventional" air and water pollution
appears to have been halted.
In short, we were holding our own with
gains, in many instances, being offset by
additional growth.
Midway through the decade and
continuing up to the moment, many
Americans began wondering about over-
protection. Were we going too far? To
many, it seemed, the cumulative effect of
so many laws was more destructive than
beneficial.
But taken individually, each serves an
important purpose. Examined individually,
the laws seem reasonable. They can
be "opened up" from time to time for
amendments. Most of the laws of the 70's
have been amended, sharpened, improved.
Few have been substantially weakened.
Standards in laws administered primarily
by EPA are reviewed periodically in light
of changing technology and scientific
information, but have not been
substantially weakened despite pressure
from powerful quarters of society.
The laws of the 70's are standing the test
of time. By and large, they are doing the
job.
But probably more important than law, is
the idea that an environmental ethic,
widely heralded in the beginning of the
decade, has moved quietly into the fabric
of society... into households, corporate
boardrooms, governmental chambers and
libraries.
An EPA attorney, asked to reflect on the
progress of environmental improvement
programs, answered, "For every Colstrip
(a major controversial power plant in
Montana, provided finally with high-
efficiency pollution controls to protect a
clean air area) there are probably 20
permit applications that move smoothly
through the process... not because
they have received less scrutiny, but
because they have met environmental
requirements... because environmental
requirements have become an integral part
of the process of planning new facilities."
The real progress of the 1970's may be just
that kind of quiet change....
5
-------
Onll""
Willis to ii
Glasgow
Cboteau fl
Greal
L^wistowrf
«pS) Dickinson { . .H1"*'0*"
BISMARtKf ^ '
m "C
\bcrde«n
J Water!'"*
!\
Sheridu
PIERRE HuroW Brookings
Mitchell*^ Sioux Fall
| | Indian Reservations
National Parks
Public Lands
Rock
' QC'HEYENNt
Collins
Sterling
reeley
fl Mom
DENVER
Junction
Colorado
Springy
N r Durangi
400 Kilometers
400 Miles
-------
Region 8
Region 8 of the Environmental Protection
Agency (Colorado, Montana, North
Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and
Wyoming) is big... and beautiful. Within
this region can be found magnificent
scenery high jagged mountains,
deserts, improbable rock formations,
fertile plains, grasslands, and prairies, dark
green forests, tumbling streams and still
some wide open spaces, still some quiet,
untouched wilderness.
But this region has not escaped the
damage caused by manmade pollution.
Environmental problems do exist. Some of
them are major. For instance, mountain
air, which has 18 percent less oxygen at
Denver's elevation than air at sea level, is
polluted more easily. Though relatively
few people live in the area, smog can
result when they cluster in cities like
Denver, Colorado Springs, Pueblo and
Salt Lake City. A brand-new, perfectly
tuned automobile puts twice as much
carbon monoxide into the air in Denver as
it does in Detroit.
Beneath the surface of the six states in
the region lie 50 percent of the nation's
coal reserves, most of its commercially
feasible oil shale, and 40 percent of its
economically recoverable uranium. Intense
activity to extract these energy-rich fuels
may create boom-towns with many kinds
of pollution problems.
Our dry climate is a major contributor to
air and water pollution. Seven major river
systems have their beginning here and
continue on to supply water to other
regions, but their flow is relatively small
and the water they carry must be reused
many times. Small streams are particularly
vulnerable to pollution, even in slight
amounts. The lack of moisture in our
region helps produce "fugitive dust,"
consisting of loose dirt and sand blown
into the atmosphere by drying winds.
Cleaning up past pollution and trying to
control its spread are both expensive and
Region 8's small population means that
the tax base is also small.
The EPA does not work alone to protect
our environment. Instead its many
programs are administered with other
organizations at a variety of levels. In
Region 8, these include state and
municipal governments, regional councils,
hundreds of special districts, private
industry, citizen groups, individuals, and
the 23 federally recognized Indian
reservations located within the region's
borders. These programs provide grants,
technical assistance, study and
monitoring.
7
-------
Environmental Programs
Laws for Which Major Provisions
EPA has Primary
Responsibility >
Laws for Which Major Provisions
EPA has Primary
Responsibility
Clean Air Act
1977*
...Sets national air quality standards
...Requires State Implementation Plans
(SIPs) to ensure compliance with
standards
...Sets vehicle emission standards
...Sets performance standards for new or
modified stationary sources of air
pollution
...Protects areas already cleaner than
required by national standards
...Requires cleanup of areas not meeting
standards
...Requires maintenance of air quality in
areas where standards are already met
...Limits emissions of very hazardous
pollutants
...Funds parts of State air pollution control
programs
Federal Water
Pollution Control
(Clean Water Act)
1977
...Prohibits discharge of any pollutant into
navigable waters without a permit
...Provides water quality criteria
...Sets standards for point source
discharge
...Prohibits dumping of radioactive waste
into the nation's waters
...Sets pre-treatment standards for
wastewater treatment plants
...Requires states to adopt water quality
standards that meet or exceed national
water quality standards
...Funds 75 percent of construction costs
for municipal sewage treatment systems
...Funds parts of State water pollution
control act
Safe Drinking ...Sets minimum national drinking water
Water Act 1974 quality standards
...Authorizes research on health aspects of
drinking water
...Protects drinking water from
contamination associated with injection of
wastes
...Assures adequate supplies of chemicals
needed to treat public water systems
...Establishes National Drinking Water
Advisory Council
...Allows designation of aquifers as sole or
principal source of drinking water
environmental analysis required on
federally funded projects in designated area
...Funds parts of State drinking water
programs
Noise and Quiet
Community Acts
1972 and 1978
Federal
Insecticide,
Fungicide, and
Rodenticide Act
1972*
...Sets acceptable levels for products that
are sources of noise (construction
equipment, transportation equipment,
except aircraft, all motors, and engines
and electric equipment
...Requires labeling of products as to their
noise characteristics. Encourages
development of low-noise emission
products
...Sets noise emission standards for the
railroad industry
...Demonstrates approaches to reducing
noise
...Requires premarket clearance of
pesticides to prevent unreasonable hazard
to humans or the environment
...Requires classification of pesticides for
general or restricted use
...Provides for certification of users of
restricted use pesticides
...Requires informative and accurate
labeling of pesticides
...Specifies tolerance levels for certain
pesticides
*as most recently amended
8
-------
Laws for Which Major Provisions
EPA has Primary
Responsibility
Laws in which EPA Major Provisions
has a Supporting
Role
Resource ...Gives guidelines to protect the quality of
Conservation and ground water, surface water and the
Recovery Act ambient air from contamination by solid
1980* waste
...Encourages conservation and recycling
by commercial establishments and
municipalities
...Helps carry out solid waste management
programs
...Sets standards for handling of hazardous
waste from its generation through
transportation to final disposal or
treatment
...Protects underground water sources
from pollution associated with disposal of
hazardous waste
Toxic Substances
Control Act 1976
...Authorizes EPA to obtain data from
industry on production, use and health
effects of chemical substances and
mixtures (does not include drugs, food
additives, pesticides, tobacco, or
radioactive materials)
...Requires testing of potentially harmful
chemicals
...Regulates the manufacture, processing,
use and disposal of a chemical substance
or mixture
...Bans manufacture, processing and
distribution of products containing
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's)
...Restricts use of some aerosol
propellants
...Established Interagency Testing
Committee which makes
recommendations to EPA on testing
substances
National
Environmental
Policy Act
1970
..."Encourages productive and enjoyable
harmony between man and his
environment"
...Requires environmental impact analysis
(EIS) for any project that directly or
indirectly affects the human environment
and uses federal money, federal land
leasing or requires a federal permit for
operation
...Created the Council on Environmental
Quality. CEQ or the President may make
the final decision when conflict exists
between federal agencies regarding
project impacts
Marine Protection,
Research and
Sanctuaries Act
(Ocean Dumping
Act) 1972
...Prevents or limits ocean dumping of any
material that would adversely affect
human health, welfare or marine
environment
...Requires permit system to control
dumping in oceans
...Mandates research in pollution,
overfishing and other man-induced
ecological effects
...Gives authority to designate areas as
marine sanctuaries
Endangered ...Requires protection of the "critical
Species Act habitat" of an endangered species in any
1973 project with federal involvement
...Requires that each federal agency use
its authority to save endangered species
Atomic Energy Act
1954
...Provides overall guidance to other
federal agencies on radiation protection
matters which could affect public health
...Sets "generally applicable environmental
standards" outside boundary of nuclear
facilities
9
-------
Indian Programs
Laws in Which Major Provisions
EPA has a
Supporting Role
Surface Mining ...Sets standards to control disturbances of
Control and the land from coal mining
oMS^T8''0" ^ - Assures reclamation after mining
...Prohibits mining where reclamation is
not feasible
...Sets performance standards to protect
public health, safety and the environment
Occupational Safety ...Assures safe and healthful working
and Health Act conditions
^ ...Requires employee health records be
kept
...Sets contamination exposure limits and
maximum contamination levels for
workplace air
Federal environmental statutes apply to Indian reservations
and to Indian people as they do to other lands, other people.
The Indian reservations within Region 8 cover nearly 30,000
square miles of land. These lands vary from high mountainous
terrain to lush rolling grasslands to dry desert lands.
Many tribes are governed by elected, federally recognized
tribal governments. Both state and federal courts recognize
tribal governments as quasi-sovereign and distinct from states.
The protection of reservation environments requires the
cooperation of many governments: federal, state, tribal and
local.
The accompanying chart shows the Indian reservations, their
size, population, and the EPA programs the tribes have begun
to participate in (indicated by an X) or where tribes have
shown interest (shown by O).
Energy Supply and
Environmental
Coordination Act
1974
...Enables federal government to order
existing oil- gas-fired facilities to convert
to coal
...Requires that all new power plants be
coal fired
...Sets specific time table for meeting State
Implementation Plan for converted plants
Uranium Mill
Tailings Radiation
Control Act 1978
...Sets cleanup standards for uranium mill
tailings from inactive processing sites
...Sets general standards for protection of
environment outside boundaries of tailing
disposal sites
...Sets standards for final clean-up and
disposal of mill tailings from active sites
...Investigates health hazards associated
with current and past uranium operations.
Funds 90 percent of tailings cleanup
-------
Indian Reservations in Region 8
State
Reservation
Tribes
Land Area
(in Acres)
Total
PROGRAMS
Population
Air
Water Quality
Management
Pesticides
Solid
Waste
Colorado
Southern Ute
Southern Ute
307,110
2,310
O
X
X
Ute Mountain
Ute Mountain Ute
474,760
1,510
O
o
Montana
Blackfeet
Blackfeet
950,640
6,220
O
X
O
X
Crow
Crow
1,554,250
4,210
O
X
O
Flathead
Confederated Salish and Kootenai
1,243,970
5,000
X
X
Fort Belknap
Gros Ventre and Assiniboine
616,050
2,000
X
Fort Peck
Assiniboine & Sioux
1,964,870
6,000
X
X
O
Northern Cheyenne
Northern Cheyenne
433,590
2,680
X
X
O
X
Rocky Boy
Chippewa-Cree
107,610
1,500
X
O
North Dakota
Fort Berthold
Hidatsa, Mandan & Arikara
980,500
5,000
X
O
X
Fort Totten
Devils' Lake Sioux
244,510
2,500
O
X
Standing Rock
Standing Rock Sioux
847,800
4,690
X
X
Turtle Mountain
Chippewa
70,240
10,000
X
X
South Dakota
Cheyenne River
Cheyenne River Sioux
1,419,500
4,310
X
X
Crow Creek
Crow Creek Sioux
122,530
1,230
X
X
Flandreau
Flandreau Sioux
2,180
270
X
Lower Brule
Lower Brule Sioux
119,940
700
X
X
X
Pine Ridge
Oglala Sioux
2,778,710
11,350
O
X
X
Rosebud Sioux
Rosebud Sioux
978,230
8,000
X
X
X
Lake Traverse
Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux
106,210
5,000
Yankton
Yankton Sioux
434,930
3,000
O
X
Utah
Uintah & Ouray
Uintah & Ouray Ute
1,008,150
5,000
X
Navajo
(Utah portion) Navajo
1,194,530
4,930
O
X
0
Ute Mountain
Ute Mountain Ute
13,000
250
O
(Utah portion)
Goshute
Goshute, Bannock & Paiute
37,523
157
(Utah portion)
Skull Valley
Goshute
17,440
60
Wyoming
Wind River
Shoshone & Arapaho
1,886,500
10,000
O
X
X
11
-------
Colorado
Air Quality
~
~
~
~
Alert level exceeded
for one or more pollutants
Primary standard exceeded
for one or more pollutants
No evidence primary standard
exceeded for any pollutant
Insufficient data,
monitoring not warranted
Air Quality
The quality and clarity of air in Colorado
is a prized resource, and the State has
been a mecca for people with respiratory
ailments. Much of Colorado's air is clean,
but the rapid growth of population, motor
vehicles, and industries has brought some
severe, localized air pollution problems.
Air pollution in Colorado comes from the
combustion of coal, oil, gas and wood in
power generation, industrial sources,
space heating and cooling, and a host of
miscellaneous sources. Dust comes from
construction, agriculture, mining, unpaved
roads, and other sources. In urban areas,
motor vehicles are the prime source of
toxic gases and particles.
Five areas currently violate National health
standards for air quality:
Colorado Springs area carbon
monoxide and particulates
Denver area carbon monoxide,
hydrocarbons, ozone, nitrogen dioxide
and particulates
Grand Junction area particulates and
lead
Larimer and Weld counties carbon
monoxide, ozone and particulates
Pueblo area particulates
In the Denver area, motor vehicles
account for 93 percent of the carbon
monoxide, 85 percent of the hydrocarbon
emissions, about one-third of the nitrogen
oxides (hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides
react in sunlight to form ozone), and 75
percent of the particulates (including both
tailpipe emissions and particles stirred up
by vehicle movement).
The Colorado legislature has enacted a
law requiring inspection and some
maintenance of vehicles, aimed at
reducing automobile emissions to the
levels at which the pollution control
equipment is designed to operate. This
law will apply to the urbanized areas along
the Front Range of Colorado.
Other measures for air quality
improvement include transportation
controls, improvements of public
transportation, and strategies aimed at
encouraging alternative transportation
such as car pools, van pools, and
increased bicycle use. Improvements
anticipated for the future are EPA
requirements for reducing emissions from
vehicles to be used at higher altitudes
(such as Denver, where cars made for sea
level use pollute about twice as much),
use of alternative fuels such as gasohol
and possibly hydrogen or natural gas,
light-rail commuting service and electric
cars.
These programs and strategies are aimed
at attaining National health standards by
1987.
Water Quality
Water quality in Colorado is influenced by
natural geologic features, and by land and
water uses within the State. The most
common violations of water quality
standards within the mountainous areas of
the State are due to the presence of
metals, particularly lead, copper, zinc,
iron, cadmium, and manganese. Lead,
copper, and cadmium pollution is
frequently found in short stream segments
near inactive or abandoned mining areas.
Salinity (the level of total dissolved
minerals) is of concern in the Colorado
River system, in the Arkansas River, and,
to a lesser degree, in the South Platte
River. Salinity seriously affects water
quality and water uses in the Arkansas
River between La Junta and the
Colorado/Kansas border. Although salinity
has little effect on the quality and use of
water from the Colorado River and its
tributaries in Colorado itself, the Colorado
portion of the seven-state Colorado River
basin is a source of salts for the rest of
the river system. Salts originate from both
natural and man-made sources.
Colorado
-------
Water Quality
^ Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
m^-Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Dissolved Solids
*- Nitrogen
|H Major Water Quality Problems
v« *
Blue
| | Minor Water Quality Problems
(
i
| Infrequent Water Quality Problems
[ | No Data
Problems with other water quality
standards in Colorado are usually
associated with wastewater discharges
from cities and towns and runoff from
agricultural activities and urban areas.
Water pollution from these sources
includes high levels of ammonia, which
affects aquatic life in the Front Range and
in the major mountain valleys, and levels
of fecal coliform bacteria.
Major violations of bacteria standards for
"secondary contact recreation" (boating,
fishing, etc.) occur in many streams,
primarily along the Front Range and in the
lower Platte and Arkansas Rivers. High
nutrient levels (nitrates and phosphates)
also occur along the Front Range and
lower Platte and Arkansas Rivers and
endanger the quality of some of the
reservoirs and lakes of the mountain
region.
Major municipal wastewater facilities in
Colorado are located primarily within the
Front Range urban corridor from Pueblo
to Fort Collins. Industries located within
this urban corridor are required to pretreat
their wastewater before sending it to a
municipal facility for final treatment and
discharge. Water quality problems have
been encountered within areas served by
major municipal facilities, even though
these facilities are generally among the
best in the state. During the period 1973-
1980, EPA provided nearly $225 million to
the State to help build municipal sewage
plants. This allotment, under the authority
of the Clean Water Act, provided 75
percent of the costs of building these
plants.
Agricultural activities, including feedlots,
cause problems that cannot be handled by
centralized treatment facilities. The
principal pollutants reaching Colorado's
streams from these activities include salts,
sediments, and nitrates (from fertilizers).
Mining activities result in stream
accumulations of metal compounds and
sediments. Rain and melting snow in
urban areas carry sediments, oxygen-
demanding substances, and bacteria to
receiving streams. Use of flood retention
devices and low-lying lands to intercept
these waters helps through natural
filtration and treatment.
Drinking Water
The quality of treated drinking water
supplies in Colorado, while generally
good, faces an endemic problem from the
presence of Giardia Lamblia in surface
waters throughout the State. Giardia
Lamblia is a protozoan resistant to
chemical disinfection and causes a gastro-
intestinal disease in humans. Colorado
suffers from several outbreaks of Giardia-
related disease annually.
Another source of drinking water
problems is the widespread presence of
naturally occurring radioactive elements in
potable water supply sources. The
removal of both Giardia and radioactive
elements requires the installation and
proper operation of sophisticated filtration
systems in addition to more
"conventional" water treatment facilities.
Sixteen communities in Colorado still use
surface drinking water supplies without
filtration, and a similar number need
improved treatment units or additional
treatment capacity to reliably meet
drinking water standards.
Colorado
-------
Solid and Hazardous Waste
Hazardous wastes include flammable,
corrosive, toxic, and infectious materials.
The amount of hazardous wastes
generated in Colorado is estimated at
some 1000 tons per day. In 1977, over 9.7
million gallons of hazardous wastes,
primarily from industrial activities, were
delivered to Denver's Lowry Landfill
disposal site, a principal disposal site for
such wastes in Colorado. Hazardous
wastes disposed of at other disposal sites
or at industrial sites are being surveyed. A
very small percentage of hazardous waste
generated in Colorado is shipped out of
state for disposal.
Most of the sources of hazardous wastes
in Colorado are located along the Front
Range between Pueblo and Fort Collins,
with most being centered in the Denver
metropolitan area. Standards and
regulatory controls are being instituted for
the production, transportation, storage,
and disposal of hazardous waste materials.
The principal hazardous waste-generating
industries in Colorado are: 1) chemicals
and allied products, 2) metal refineries and
producers, 3) metal products fabrication
(including electroplating), 4) petroleum
refining and related activities, 5) rubber
and plastics products manufacturing, and
6) mining activities.
In addition to the environmental and
public health problems presented by the
disposal of hazardous and toxic wastes,
the disposal of what is referred to as "solid
wastes," or garbage, sewage sludge, etc.,
also presents problems. The burial of solid
wastes can present a high potential for
chemical and bacteriological pollution of
ground and surface water, particularly
when certain geological conditions are
present. However, proper site selection,
combined with good design and operation
of the sanitary landfill, can normally
eliminate the possibility of either surface
or groundwater pollution. Another
problem with landfills is the generation of
explosive methane gas as the wastes
decompose. Again, good design and
operating practices can minimize the
potential dangers of gas explosions. In
fact, the future may see development of
this "waste gas" as fuel.
There are 201 solid waste disposal sites in
Colorado, 53 of which serve from 5000 to
200,000 people per site. Sixty-one
percent of the small disposal sites were in
compliance with state and federal
requirements at their last inspection, while
only 36 percent of the large sites complied
with regulations.
Increasing amounts of solid and semi-
solid wastes (called sludge) are being
removed in the treatment of sewage. An
estimated 150 landfill sites are being used
for the disposal of sewage sludges. These
sludges can create serious operation
problems for landfills, including the
generation of methane gas.
Other waste disposal problems include the
disposal of industrial sludges, and the
existence of abandoned or closed disposal
sites. These latter sites are frequently built
on, and include shopping centers, schools,
and residential buildings. They must be
carefully monitored to prevent dangerous
concentrations of explosive gases, and
pollution of groundwaters.
Colorado
-------
Toxic Substances
Pesticides benefit the agricultural
community and the general public by
increasing the quality and quantity of
crops, protecting public health, and
helping maintain aesthetic qualities in
urban environments. However, pesticides,
if misused, may create problems such as
human poisonings and contamination of
livestock and human water supplies.
While generally beneficial, the use of
pesticides frequently causes
disagreements among interest groups.
Examples include mosquito abatement
programs versus agriculture/wildlife
interests and beekeepers versus insect
control programs. Another example
involves conflicts between farmers using
pesticides and new homeowners who have
purchased lots adjacent to agricultural
lands. These conflicts are often
heightened because of the limited
alternatives available to address certain
types of pests. For example, the limited
alternatives available to livestock
producers to control predators has
resulted in many cases of illegal use of
predator poisons.
Each environmental program (i.e., air,
water, solid waste, toxics) has its own
unique problems in Colorado which
involve the control of toxic substances.
However, control alternatives often affect
one or more of the other media and
require a coordinated multi-media
approach.
There are still many transformers and
capacitors in Colorado which contain
PCBs as coolants. Past practices
regarding PCB oil have left contamination
in the soil and waterways. The material is
a suspected carcinogen and the levels of
concentration at which various
environmental impacts occur is unknown.
Sprayed asbestos insulation on ceilings
has been found in several Colorado
schools, and many more instances will
become known upon a more complete
sampling. Asbestos, when inhaled, is a
known carcinogen and efforts must be
made to locate all occurrences of sprayed
asbestos which is releasing fibers to the
air.
Radiation
Radiation presents an environmental
health issue of particular concern in
Colorado, due to naturally occurring
radioactive uranium and radium deposits
and to mining and industrial activities
involving radioactive materials.
Colorado has 3000 active and inactive
uranium "pits" and several major uranium
processing mills. There is also a large
legacy from the past involving radium
mining and processing in the early 1900's.
Durango, Grand Junction, Rifle, Gunnison,
Naturita, Slick Rock, and Maybell all have
inactive uranium tailings piles, a problem
which has been severely compounded in
Grand Junction by the widespread use of
tailings in construction of buildings for
homes, stores, etc., in the 1940's, 50's, and
60's. Tailings from turn-of-the-century
radium processing facilities in Denver and
Grand Junction also pose problems,
especially since many of the early
processing sites have been converted to
other uses over the past 60 years without
any clean-up of the radioactive residue.
The possible public health danger of low-
level radioactivity from uranium and
radium tailings has been recognized only
in recent years. Indeed, the very presence
of radium tailings in Denver and Grand
Junction was all but forgotten until they
were "rediscovered" in 1979. Where old
tailing piles exist, and especially in cases
where tailings have been used in
construction or old sites have been
converted to other uses, the problem is
not only one of prevention of possible
human exposure to radiation, but of
belatedly cleaning-up these significant
potential sources of radiation exposure.
Colorado
-------
Other key concerns with protection of the
public from radiation in Colorado involve
radioactive elements in water supplies from
ongoing uranium mining activities, such as
the contamination of the North Table
Mountain water supply system in the
Denver metropolitan area, with the
Arkansas River and in other river basins in
the state, due in large part to uranium
mining and milling activities. Naturally
occurring uranium in streams feeding
public water supplies, is also of concern
since, in some cases, natural levels of in-
stream radioactivity far exceed proposed
drinking water standards. Unfortunately,
no drinking water standard for radiological
toxicity currently exists, nor is there at
present any good basis to define such a
standard.
Finally, the presence of the Fort Saint
Vrain nuclear powerplant at Platteville, just
north of Denver, and of the Rocky Flats
Plant, on the northwest fringe of the
metropolitan area, require constant
vigilance by both the plants' operators and
state and federal regulatory agencies to
minimize the possibility of accidental
releases of radioactive gases and elements
into the environment. Effective, up-to-date
emergency response plans must be
maintained for both facilities to protect the
public from exposure to radiation should
accidental radioactive releases occur.
Noise
Noise problems in Colorado are becoming
increasingly serious and complex. Rapid
growth and development along the Front
Range are causing greater numbers of
citizens to be exposed to high levels of
urban noise. In response, many
communities are becoming actively
concerned with motor vehicle and other
community noise problems. The
paramount noise problem, however, is
probably that associated with commercial
airports. Denver's Stapleton International
Airport is the source of particularly serious
noise problems.
On the Western Slope, energy
development is bringing noise from
construction, mining, fuel transportation,
and motor vehicles to previously quiet
rural areas and small towns. One such
town, Craig, has begun to feel the full
impacts of increased noise as energy
projects are developed.
Pristine scenic, historic and recreation
areas will require protection from the
noise impacts of transportation and
energy development. Also, as people are
increasingly exposed to excessive noise,
they will become more insistent that noise
in their communities be quieted. Local
governments will thus likely become more
aware of noise as a problem which they
will need to overcome.
MAJOR FEATURES OF
COLORADO'S INSPECTION/
MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
Covers: 1968 and later cars and light trucks
in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Fort
Collins and Greeley metropolitan areas.
Begins: as a voluntary program and with
vehicles undergoing ownership change,
July 1, 1981.
Full implementation, all vehicles, Jan. 1,
1982.
Inspection: once annually with exhaust gas
analyzers at licensed inspection stations
(similar to existing safety inspection
program).
Pass/Fail: standards set so 60 percent of
1968-1974 and 70 percent of 1975 and later
vehicles will pass emission test and owners
receive certificate of compliance.
Failed Vehicles: 1968-1980 model years
will be adjusted to manufacturer
specifications, retested and issued
certificate of compliance if they pass,
certificate of test if they fail. No further
repair required. "Gross" polluters are
expected to be very small portion of
vehicle population and will be off the road
from natural attrition soon.
In 1980-later model years, needed repairs
up to maximum of $100 will be required.
Any vehicle without required emission
controls as originally installed by
manufacturer will fail and will not receive
certificate.
Referee: stations operated by State will be
consumer protection feature.
Colorado
-------
Montana
R.Ll-i Ml THROW
Air Quality
The Big Sky Country is truly what its
name implies, yet there are places where
the quality of air is a fragile resource. The
plains east of the Rocky Mountains
provide few obstructions to the sea of air
that flows across the land, but in western,
southern and central Montana, where
various mountain ranges form valleys, air
sometimes is trapped in layered
inversions.
In urban areas throughout the state, street
dust, smoke from fireplaces and industrial
emissions contribute to lowering air
quality and visibility. In rural areas the
largest contributors to air quality
degradation are unpaved roads and
mining operations.
Problems involving violations of National
health standards for sulfur dioxide exist in
the East Helena and Anaconda areas, from
smelter emissions, and in the Laurel area
from oil refining. Violations of air
standards for lead, also due to smelter
emissions, occur in the East Helena and
Anaconda areas. Carbon monoxide from
motor vehicle emissions causes violations
in Great Falls, Missoula and Billings.
Standards for particulates are violated in a
number of areas, especially in the western
part of the state, from street dust,
fireplaces, mining and other forms,of
industry. All of Montana meets National
standards for photochemical oxidants
(ozone) and nitrogen oxides.
Water Quality
Montana has some of the highest quality
water in the United States, and many
streams are pure enough to support
excellent fisheries. The state is not without
water quality problems. About 30 percent
of the stream mileage is being degraded,
largely by "non-point" source pollution
and as a result of irrigation withdrawal.
Non-point source problems are by far the
most prevalent. Activities associated with
agriculture, mining, urban development
and forestry are the most significant
contributors. Of these activities
agriculture, by virtue of its geographic
extent, is the most prevalent.
The most common water quality problem
in Montana is the presence of clays and
other mineral sediments in streams.
According to a State study, 364 stream
segments are experiencing sediment
increases at some point due to channel
alteration and overuse by livestock.
Although logging of federally and
corporately owned forests does degrade
surface water, these operations are usually
managed with the intent of reducing
adverse environmental impacts. A major
portion of Montana's forests, about 3.1
million acres, are owned by private non-
corporate land holders. Without strong
forestry management programs, future
harvests could result in substantial water
quality degradation.
Montana
-------
Air Quality
~
n
Alert level exceeded
for one or more pollutants
Primary standard exceeded
for one or more pollutants
No evidence primary standard
exceeded for any pollutant
Insufficient data,
II monitoring not warranted
Drinking Water
The initial Montana law relating to public
water supplies was enacted in 1907. This
law was revised in 1977 and again in 1979
to enable Montana to administer the
Federal Safe Drinking Water Act.
Montana's program covered about 250
community water systems prior to 1978.
The current inventory lists 609 community
water systems and 1,147 non-community
water systems. About 87 percent of these
systems serve fewer than 1000 persons.
Ten percent of all community systems use
surface waters, and these systems supply
water to 70 percent of the population.
From a quality standpoint, Montana's
drinking water is considered generally
good in the western part, except for some
surface supplies which are high in turbidity
because of mineral sediment in these
waters. In the eastern part of the state,
communities using surface supplies, with
few exceptions, have water treatment
facilities capable of providing quality water.
However, the groundwater supplies are
generally high in total dissolved solids.
Some of the smaller supplies have
fluorides and nitrates which exceed the
healthful limits.
Nearly all of the community public water
supplies are now regularly monitoring for
bacteriological contamination, and set
levels for coliform bacteria are rarely
exceeded. Of 576 community supplies,
only about 15 have not yet begun a
regular bacteriological monitoring
program.
A program for radiological monitoring is
being developed and will be implemented
over the next 1-2 years. This program is
planned to include all community supplies.
Point source pollution is controlled
through a system of discharge permits. Of
15 major industrial discharges, 10 are
substantially in compliance with standards
or are on schedule to meet those
standards. Of 190 minor industrial
discharges, only one is not in compliance.
Discharges from about one-half of
Montana's municipal sewage plants
comply, the rest need new facilities or
operational improvements. Under the
Clean Water Act, EPA has provided nearly
$90 million to the State for construction of
municipal sewage treatment facilities
during the period 1973-1980. Under this
law, EPA funds 75 percent of the cost of
these plants, the balance coming from
local and/or State funds.
The State expects a considerable number
of water discharge permit applications
from new energy development operations,
most of which would have some effects on
high quality water. Careful attention to
these developments will be necessary to
avoid pollution of these waters.
Solid and Hazardous Waste
Disposal of solid wastes has become a
major, complex problem in Montana,
involving air, water and land pollution. In
the future, the solid waste problem will
become more extensive and costly to
control. Concerted efforts at all levels of
government, as well as the private sector,
must be employed to ensure proper waste
management.
Currently, some 600,000 tons of
municipal solid waste are generated each
year in Montana. By 1990 nearly 870,000
tons of waste will be generated yearly.
This waste is being disposed of in more
than 250 identified municipal disposal
facilities and numerous indiscriminate
dump sites.
Approximately 200,000 tons of potentially
hazardous wastes are generated each
year in Montana. This volume of
hazardous waste includes pesticides,
heavy metals and other industrial
chemical wastes. Furthermore, a large
number of "empty" pesticide and other
toxic chemical containers are discarded
annually.
The State is providing both technical and
financial assistance to local government
entities for the development of waste
management systems.
Legislative amendments enacted in 1977
give the State control over hazardous
waste transporters. Also in 1977 the State
published a survey of hazardous waste
generation, storage, treatment and
disposal practices. This survey included
236 industries as well as other generators
of hazardous waste, such as hospitals,
pesticide users and septic tank service
companies.
Montana
-------
Water Quality
Lane
Koocanusa
Flathead
Lake
EB
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Dissolved Solids
Nitrogen
[ "j Major Water Quality Problems
| ( Minor Water Quality Problems
^1 Intrequent Water Quality Problems
[ | No Data
Currently, no licensed hazardous waste
disposal facility is located in Montana.
This situation does not pose an
immediate problem because of the
availability of sites in neighboring states.
However, the difficult task of siting a
hazardous waste disposal facility may
have to be faced in Montana.
Alternatives for collection, storage and
disposal of small quantities of hazardous
wastes from laboratories, retail
establishments, pesticide users and small
industrial generators may be necessary to
ease the burden of hazardous waste
disposal in sanitary landfills and to
prevent illegal hazardous waste disposal.
Toxic Substances
Montana is primarily an agricultural state
and needs pesticides to help manage pest
problems. Commercial applicators
estimate that about three million acres are
treated commercially each year. Private
applicators treat smaller acreages, do spot
treating, and field margin treating, and
apply pesticides to about two million
acres.
The Montana Department of Agriculture
has a responsibility to serve Montana's
agriculture, but is also mandated to
protect the environment and the health of
the state's citizens. To do this, the use of
pesticides is closely monitored through a
pesticide applicator certification program
and an enforcement program.
Since their inception, the programs have
significantly reduced the amount of
pesticide contamination in Montana
despite the fact that the number of
certified commercial and private
applicators has increased significantly.
Pesticide problems remain, however.
Several fish kills led to regulations
restricting the use of aquatic herbicides.
Damage occurs from drift of pesticides
sprayed by air. Test plots have been
established in the state to provide baseline
information on pesticide levels in the soil.
After the discovery that many schools
throughout the state contain asbestos
building materials, the EPA sent each
school information on how to collect
samples and how to take remedial steps to
reduce the danger from sprayed asbestos
materials. The EPA will continue assisting
schools in getting samples tested and
coordinating technical assistance.
An incident of accidental contamination
by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) at
the Pierce Packing Plant in Billings
received national attention in 1979,
highlighting the need for careful control of
this highly toxic chemical.
Radiation
Elevated levels of radioactivity are being
studied in two parts of Montana by state
and federal agencies. The State has been
studying elevated radioactivity in water
wells and geothermal springs in the
Alhambra area since the problem was
discovered in 1979.
The State and EPA have been investigating
the radiation levels in Butte for more than
two years. Although studies are still in
progress, it appears the elevated radiation
levels are due to a unique combination of
natural and displaced radioactive materials.
Naturally occurring radon gas is released
through cracks and outcrops in the earth.
Noise
Although Montana is not facing severe
noise problems, there is a growing interest
in assessing the problem, and in
preventing future problems from energy
development and uncontrolled growth.
The State has asked for an EPA grant for
noise assessment and an educational
program to help develop corrective
measures at the community level.
Montana
-------
North Dakota
Air Quality
ill
i ¦nSipl
'
aiKiiil
1 1
p
~
Alert level exceeded
for one or more pollutants
Primary standard exceeded
for one or more pollutants
No evidence primary standard
exceeded for any pollutant
Insufficient data,
monitoring not warranted
Air Quality
The quality of air in North Dakota is better
than that required under both State and
EPA standards which are designed to
protect human health and general welfare.
There are 93 major sources of air pollution
in North Dakota. (Sources producing 100
tons or more of pollutants each year).
Only three of these are violating
regulations and standards, and all are
under schedule to come into compliance.
The major air quality challenge for the
near future will be to control emissions in
the western part of North Dakota where
energy development is causing significant
increases in the concentrations of air
pollutants. Control of particulate and
sulfur dioxide emissions from these
facilities will protect not only the air
throughout the region, but also the
especially clean air of the Theodore
Roosevelt National Memorial Park and the
Lostwood Wilderness Area. As long as
new facilities are properly located, and
adequate air pollution controls installed,
both public health and opportunities for
growth will be protected.
Water Quality
Because North Dakota is a semi-arid state,
both the quantity and quality of its water
are of environmental concern. Except on
the Missouri mainstem, the dry climate
results in relatively low stream flows with
most of the minor streams considered
intermittent for most of the year. The
evaluation of surface water quality in the
state must therefore include stream flow as
a major factor. Low sluggish flows during
the warm summer months, and low flows
during winter months (under ice and snow
cover which inhibit aeration and sunlight
penetration) are common conditions
encountered in many of North Dakota's
surface waters. The resulting decrease in
"natural" treatment, coupled with the lack
of dilution of low flow rates, tends to
elevate pollutant levels.
A gradual improvement in water quality
can be directly related to successful gains
in the control of both municipal and
industrial waste discharges over the past
years. There are 15 major municipal and 25
major industrial and other dischargers in
the state, and a total of 338 minor
dischargers, all under public control
through a permit system.
Non-point pollution sources are presently
considered the major cause of pollution of
surface waters, from nutrients and
sediments. Phosphates and nitrates
stimulate the production of algae in the
slow-moving streams in the state, affecting
beneficial uses of the waters. Non-point
pollution control programs now underway
should show results toward a gradual
reduction of nutrients in these streams.
Considerable public attention is being
paid to the quality of North Dakota lakes.
The decline of quality in certain lakes,
from nutrients and interference with
natural flow led to State and EPA
cooperation under the Clean Lakes
Program, aimed at restoring threatened
lakes.
From 1973 to 1980, EPA has allocated
almost $72 million to the State of North
Dakota for the construction of municipal
sewage treatment plants. This allocation,
under the Clean Water Act, provides 75
percent of the cost of these plants. The
remaining money comes from State and
local sources.
Drinking Water
In the year ending October 1, 1979, 757
full surveys and 602 additional state
visitations were made of public water
systems. The majority of these sources
comply with state and federal
requirements, with the exception of
fluoride and bacteriological levels. (It
should be noted that fluorides are
naturally occurring compounds in North
Dakota and many other areas of the
world.)
North Dakota
-------
Water Quality
^ Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Dissolved Solids
~ Nitrogen
Major Water Quality Problems
Minor Water Quality Problems
m Infrequent Water Quality Problems
[^] No Data
Solid and Hazardous Waste
While North Dakota has not experienced
the serious waste disposal problems
common to the more urban states,
changing conditions and the energy boom
point to a need for improved solid waste
management. One of the environmental
impacts of development in western North
Dakota is the generation of mining and
utility wastes. This includes ash, particles
and gases from coal combustion.
In a three-year study conducted for EPA,
scientists from the University of North
Dakota have found high concentrations of
arsenic, apparently from the leaching of
buried fly ash and sludge byproducts of
the lignite power generation process. The
arsenic seems to be a problem peculiar to
North Dakota lignite. The State
Department of Health is developing a
strategy for an environmentally safe
disposal method to alleviate future
negative impacts from the disposal of
these wastes.
Approximately 59 open dumps still exist in
smaller, widely scattered communities.
The State Department of Health will
continue to work with these communities
to replace or improve these dumps.
A major purpose of the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act is to bring
under control the disposal of hazardous
wastes by industry, agriculture, mining and
municipalities. Because North Dakota is an
agrarian state with limited heavy industry,
the disposal of large quantities of
hazardous waste has not been a major
problem. However, there has been an
increased demand for disposal sites for
leftover pesticides, herbicides and arsenic
compounds, wastes from laboratories, and
materials from military bases and missile
sites. Since there are no hazardous waste
disposal facilities in North Dakota now, the
material must be shipped out-of-state for
disposal, reprocessing or long-term
storage.
Toxic Substances
Although North Dakota does not
experience the crises associated with
concentrations of major chemical
industries, there are problems of toxics
that must be addressed.
Pesticides, both insecticides and
herbicides, are used extensively in North
Dakota and the primary goal of the State's
pesticide program is to ensure that these
pesticides are used properly and safely. To
accomplish this, the North Dakota
Department of Agriculture certifies
pesticide applicators, inspects pesticide
dealers and applicators, and investigates
reports of pesticide misuse. The
inspections serve both to educate
distributors and users and to enforce
compliance with state and federal laws.
EPA assists the State in enforcement
action, training, and research. The North
Dakota Department of Health provides
technical assistance to users for the
disposal of pesticides and containers.
The State is working with EPA to evaluate
and correct the asbestos-in-schools
problem in North Dakota. The Governor
has designated the North Dakota
Department of Public Instruction as the
State agency with primary responsibility
for this problem. Information has been
distributed to the schools in the state
advising them of the potential problem
with asbestos. The North Dakota
Department of Health and the State
Department of Public Instruction provide
technical assistance to schools for the
safe disposal of the asbestos and
North Dakota
-------
associated materials. Two PCB
(polychlorinated biphenyl) incidents of
major significance affected the State in FY
1980. One occurred in June, 1979 at the
Pierce Packing Plant in Montana, resulting
in the ultimate destruction and disposal of
approximately 16,000 contaminated
chickens in North Dakota. The second
incident was caused by a leaking
lubricating oil drum that contained PCB's
and resulted in the contamination of a
herd of cattle.
Radiation
North Dakota has no major radiation
sources. However, transportation of
radioactive materials through the State
and industrial uses of radioactive materials
have potential for environmental harm
from radiation.
Radioactive ash from coal-fired power
plants will increase the concentrations of
naturally occurring radio-nuclides in
western North Dakota. These, as well as
past activities involving the ashing of
lignite coal containing small amounts of
uranium, must be examined.
The goal of the radiation program is to
protect the health and safety of the public
as radiation sources are developed and
used. The State Department of Health will
continue to, register and inspect X-ray
facilities, license and inspect users of
radioactive materials, and evaluate
radiation levels of nonionizing sources on
request. Legislative actions suggested for
the 1981 General Assembly's consideration
in the State/EPA agreement include
requests for authority to implement a
licensing fee system, authority to regulate
nonionizing radiation sources and
authority to regulate uranium mining and
milling sites.
Noise
The overall noise environment in North
Dakota has been good. However, with
increased coal development activities in
the western part of the state, the ambient
noise levels and problems relating to noise
are expected to increase. Vehicles are the
major sources of noise in the state. Noise
complaints received by the State
Department of Health have involved
refrigeration units on truck trailers,
building ventilation systems, gas
compressor substations, grain dryers,
traffic, airport operations, sewage
treatment plants, railroad switching
operations and blowdown operations at
coal-fired power plants.
The long-range goal of the noise control
program is to prevent and minimize the
health hazards caused by excessive noise.
To achieve this goal, the State will
continue to conduct a public awareness
campaign, adopt state noise regulations,
assist communities with noise control
ordinances, conduct noise level surveys,
and investigate noise complaints.
North Dakota
-------
South Dakota
Air Quality
n Alert level exceeded
H for one or more pollutants
I I Primary standard exceeded
II for one or more pollutants
¦ No evidence primary standard
exceeded for any pollutant
I-] Insufficient data,
' monitoring not warranted
Air Quality
Air quality in South Dakota is generally
good, and excellent in such areas as the
Badlands and Wind Cave. The Rapid City
area is a major exception and is a problem
area because of fine dust in the air. A
citizens' task force developed an
abatement plan and ordinances were
passed by the Pennington County
Commission to control this "fugitive" dust.
An air monitoring network set up across
the state monitors ambient air, specific
sources, problem areas, and air quality in
the larger cities.
There are presently 80 major air pollution
sources in South Dakota. As of July 1,
1980, only one of these sources failed to
meet State regulations.
Water Quality
Water quality problems in South Dakota
vary. The major problems are non-point
source pollution from surface water runoff,
generally scarce water in parts of the
state, point source pollution from industry
and municipal waste water treatment
discharge pipes. Many of these problems
also contribute to increased groundwater
contamination.
Non-point source pollution, (runoff from
agriculture, construction, logging and road
construction) severely affects water quality
in South Dakota. Essentially all South
Dakota waters are degraded by some form
of non-point source pollution. The major
contaminants are nitrates, phosphates and
sediments. Nitrates and phosphates from
fertilizers and organic wastes encourage
algal blooms which severely limit
recreational, municipal, and other public
uses of lakes. Sediments remain
suspended in stream and river channels
and lakes, lessening their value for similar
public activities. This type of pollution
becomes more evident during periods of
low precipitation. Scarcity of water may
adversely affect surface water quality and
limit many beneficial uses of the surface
water. Surface water quality suffers from
increased concentration of pollutants
when dilution is reduced during low flow
conditions, interfering directly with the
needs of fish and wildlife within the state.
Industrial discharges continue to affect
water quality. Although discharge of
cyanide remains a problem, significant
improvement has occurred in Whitewood
Creek because of pollution control efforts
at Homestake Gold Mine. Increased
mining in South Dakota brings potential
water quality degradation from sediments,
heavy metals, acids, and radioactive
minerals. Localized problems occur from
meat processing and cheese plants. The
potential exists for pollution of the
Missouri River as large industries such as
electrical generating plants and tanneries
are attracted by that large source of good
quality water.
Municipal sewage discharges affect stream
segments of most basins although water
quality has improved below recently
constructed treatment plants. The most
dramatic improvements were on the
James River below Mitchell where fish kills
frequently occurred before construction of
the new wastewater treatment system.
Whitewood Creek showed significant
improvement downstream from the new
Lead/Deadwood Sanitary District Plant
and Homestake. Under the Clean Water
Act, EPA has provided nearly $80 million
to the State for the construction of
municipal sewage facilities during the
period 1973-1980. These funds covered 75
percent of the cost of constructing these
plants, the balance being paid by State
and/or local funds.
Groundwater contamination is increasing.
Limited monitoring has shown
unacceptable levels of nitrates, radioactive
minerals, and heavy metals in many public
and private domestic water supplies.
Future monitoring will likely show that
poor groundwater is widespread.
Important sources of groundwater
pollution other than normal background
sources include seepage from
wastewater treatment ponds, agricultural
non-point sources, improperly cased
artesian wells, exploration wells for oil,
gas and minerals, mining activities, ahd
individual wastewater systems.
South Dakota
-------
Water Quality
Lewis &
EB
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Dissolved Solids
Nitrogen
| Major Water Quality Problems
Minor Water Quality Problems
| Infrequent Water Quality Problems
| | No Data
Drinking Water
Only 32 of South Dakota's 405 community
water supplies (8 percent) obtain their
drinking water from surface sources. The
groundwater supplies to these
communities are generally highly
mineralized. Eighty-two (82) percent of the
municipal water supplies exceed at least
one standard for inorganic chemicals.
Fifty-one violations of inorganic primary
standards established to protect health
have been recorded with 30 water supplies
violating the standard for fluoride. The
common violations of secondary
standards, designed to protect odor, taste
and appearance, are total dissolved solids,
sulfates, iron, and manganese. Eighty-
three (83) percent of the state's
community water supplies serve fewer
than 100 people. The lack of alternate
water sources and small size of the water
system often combine to make attempts to
improve the drinking water financially
impossible. The construction of several
rural water systems during the past
decade has helped bring excellent quality
water to many of these communities.
A radiological survey of South Dakota's
public water supplies is beginning. Wells
serving at least three systems exceed the
standard for Radium-226. The State is
working with these systems to ensure that
proper treatment or blending will keep the
consumer's water quality below the
established standard.
A number of the state's surface waters
contain natural organic matter which,
when chlorinated in drinking water
treatment plants, may produce chloroform
and similar compounds in quantities
potentially hazardous to human health.
When monitoring for these compounds
(called trihalomethanes), EPA works with
the affected water supplies to assure
proper treatment for prevention or
elimination of these chemicals. None of the
state's water supplies are expected to
exceed the other standards for organic
chemicals.
Turbidity (murkiness) is a seasonal
problem with several of the small surface
water sources. Although the nature of the
contamination is not considered a serious
health problem in South Dakota,
bacteriological contamination is also
affected by seasonal changes. Spring and
summer rainfall tend to increase the
number of instances that exceed
standards. A State chlorination grant
program for small communities has
eliminated bacteriological problems in a
number of towns which had consistantly
exceeded the coliform standard.
Solid and Hazardous Waste
The disposal of waste in uncontrolled
sites, and upgrading of these sites
continues to be a major problem, as is the
uncontrolled handling of hazardous waste.
Mismanagement of these wastes often
results in land, air and water pollution. To
solve these problems, the State worked
toward upgrading or closing of
uncontrolled sites, development of state
and local management plans, drafting and
revision of regulations, and
implementation of public assistance and
information programs.
Major setbacks to these management
efforts have been the generally poor
public acceptance of dump closure or
upgrading, the lack of funds to aid local
governments, inadequate legislation and
delays in developing regulations.
South Dakota
-------
Toxic Substances
Pesticides are used heavily in South
Dakota. Grasshoppers are annually a
problem. Herbicides are used to kill
broadleaf weeds because water is scarce.
Sometimes these chemicals drift onto
nearby land causing problems and
damage.
The disposal of pesticides, pesticide
containers and pesticide-related wastes is
also a problem. Most pesticides used in
the state may be properly disposed of in
approved landfills. However, no facilities
exist to dispose of pesticides containing
heavy metals and compounds such as
DDT which are banned. Another area of
concern is the widespread use and
subsequent disposal of toxaphene used in
the cattle scabies control program.
The South Dakota Department of
Agriculture provided valuable assistance
toward the establishment of pesticide
control programs on four South Dakota
Indian reservations. These programs are
the first of their kind in the nation and are
viewed as model programs for other
reservations.
Radiation
Increased emphasis on energy
independence has renewed interest in
South Dakota's uranium ore. Several
companies have increased uranium
exploration, and two companies are
planning to mine and mill uranium ore in
the state.
The 1980 State Legislature approved
$116,250 for a radiological monitoring
program in the Department of Health, to
evaluate the impact of these activities and
other sources of radiation. The program
will develop a monitoring system to
provide baseline date in affected areas,
and to provide technical assistance to
industry and the public.
Naturally occurring radioactive minerals
exist in some western South Dakota public
water supplies. The State program will
help assess health effects of radiation, and
provide assistance in the proper
management and disposal of radioactive
sludge from water treatment. The State
will also assess the effects of using water
containing radioactive minerals for
irrigation and other purposes.
Radioactive tailings from uranium
extraction processes have been used as
construction fill in some homesites at
Edgemont. One family has been relocated,
and others may be forced to move or
modify their homes.
The Department of Health maintains an
active source control program which
includes registration and inspection of
medical and dental uses of radiation.
Noise
The noise environment of South Dakota
has low ambient sound levels typical of
rural areas. Community noise (from motor
vehicles, aircraft and stationary sources) is
the major noise problem. Sioux Falls and
Rapid City have made considerable
progress in dealing with noise pollution
with EPA's help. Brookings, Spearfish,
Vermillion, Hot Springs, Aberdeen and
Pierre are expected to follow suit.
South Dakota
-------
Utah
Air Quality
Air quality in Utah is diverse. Northern and
southern Utah contain some of the
cleanest air in the Nation, while the
Wasatch Front (Weber, Davis, Salt Lake
and Utah counties) experiences violations
of the national health standards for air.
About 80 percent of the state's population
lives along the Wasatch Front.
Air monitoring networks show that the
standards are exceeded in the four
counties as follows:
Weber County carbon monoxide and
particulates
Davis County carbon monoxide, ozone,
and particulates
Salt Lake County carbon monoxide,
ozone, particulates and sulfur dioxide
Utah County carbon monoxide and
particulates
The State Bureau of Air Quality is
implementing a plan to eliminate these
violations by 1982 for particulates, by 1983
for carbon monoxide, and by 1985 for
ozone.
The major source of carbon monoxide
violations is the automobile. The State
Bureau of Air Quality and the Salt Lake
and Davis county health departments are
developing transportation control and
vehicle inspection strategies to control this
toxic gas. Ozone will be reduced by
controlling hydrocarbons, which can
produce ozone. Particulates come from
fugitive and mobile sources, each of which
is being attacked by different strategies.
The major source of particulates in Utah
County is the Geneva Steel Works.
Negotiations have proceeded well in 1980
towards a solution. Sulfur dioxide
violations are attributed to the Kennecott
Copper Company at Magna.
Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, Capitol Reef
and Canyonland National Parks are all
beautiful and have extremely clean air.
However, if energy resources are
developed nearby, the air quality will be
threatened. EPA is especially concerned
about potential decreases in visibility and
has programs underway to prevent this.
Water Quality
Wise management of Utah's limited water
calls for water conservation and improving
water quality. The primary objectives of
the water program are to protect the
public from unnecessary exposure to
waterborne health hazards, and to protect
and upgrade the quality of the waters of
the state while maintaining the beneficial
uses of these waters. The State goal is to
meet in-stream water quality standards
throughout the state by 1983.
Streams which originate in Utah's
mountains are high quality at the
headwaters, but are degraded as they flow
into the valleys for human use. Flow
fluctuates widely, with seasonal and
climatic changes, and from irrigation
diversions and reservoirs. Turbidity
increases in the lower reaches from silt
accumulation; salinity also increases.
In Salt Lake County, the major impacts on
the Jordan River are municipal waste
discharges and urban runoff. The Jordan
is a cleanup success story if compared to
30 years ago when most municipal and
industrial wastes were discharged
untreated into the river. Although wastes
are now treated, there are still problems of
sub-standard oxygen levels and excessive
bacteria levels due to the great population
growth. Higher levels of waste treatment
are planned, along with programs to
minimize urban runoff.
Utah
-------
a
Air
Quality
~
Alert level exceeded
for one or more pollutants
Primary standard exceeded
for one or more pollutants
No evidence primary standard
exceeded for any pollutant
Insufficient data,
monitoring not warranted
Water
Quality
Canyon
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Dissolved Solids
Nitrogen
Major Water Quality Problems
Minor Water Quality Problems
| Infrequent Water Quality Problems
| No Data
About two-thirds of the communities with
sewers in Utah are now substantially
meeting effluent standards. Under the
Clean Water Act, EPA provides 75 percent
of the cost of municipal sewage treatment
plants. From 1973 to 1980, EPA allotted
nearly $117 million to the State of Utah for
this purpose. Industrial sources are under
a permit system, with treatment funded by
the industry. About 85 percent of these
companies are consistently meeting their
permit conditions. Water quality
management for energy developments and
possible MX missile deployment are of
particular concern. Rapid growth of the
industries and the associated communities
will require increasing vigilance to avoid
unacceptable pollution.
Drinking Water
The State of Utah has assumed
responsibility under the Federal Safe
Drinking Water Act to monitor and control
water supplies. Most supplies consist of
high quality groundwater requiring
minimal treatment, but there are instances
of violation of bacteriological standards.
Efforts are being made to eliminate these
violations, and there have been no known
recent outbreaks of waterborne diseases
in Utah communities.
Energy developments will affect the
availability of groundwater supplies, and
more use of surface water is certain. In
some instances more complex and costly
treatment will be required to protect public
health.
The increasingly common practice of
injecting hazardous wastes into deep wells
is a subject of State study and control.
Solid and Hazardous Waste
Of the 230 municipal solid waste disposal
sites in Utah, about 90 percent have
problems of inadequate resources within
the communities for proper management.
The State Bureau of Solid Waste
Management is working with local officials
to form a system of centralized landfills to
be used by all waste generators in the
area, so that unsanitary dumps can be
closed.
There are 23 sites with potentially
hazardous wastes which are currently
under study. The State has indicated its
desire to assume responsibility for control
of the generation, transport, and ultimate
disposal of hazardous wastes. Protection
of public health will require careful
management of newly generated wastes
as well as cleanup of old (and sometimes
abandoned) sites.
Toxic Substances
EPA and the State of Utah are
implementing systems for the safe
management of chemicals known to affect
human health. These strategies will
provide for adequate control authority
without impeding technological
innovation. A special program for the
reduction of asbestos exposure in schools
is being carried out by EPA.
Control and safe use of pesticides is the
responsibility of the State Department of
Agriculture in cooperation with EPA. The
State provides for certification of
commercial applicators.
Radiation
Protection of public health from
unacceptable exposure to radiation in
Utah is the joint goal of the State and
EPA. Standards for the cleanup of
buildings and open areas, under the
Uranium Mill Tailing Radiation Control Act
of 1978, call for screening and evaluating
dwellings that may have been affected
during the 50's and 60's. The State and
EPA have developed an emergency
response plan to handle inadvertent
exposures.
Noise
EPA is working with Utah communities to
provide technical assistance under the
Quiet Communities Act of 1978. Salt Lake
County has developed an active county-
wide noise control program, Ogden is
developing a program, and other
municipalities have requested EPA's
assistance in solving specific problems.
Aircraft noise and problems resulting from
energy development will require particular
attention.
Utah
-------
Wyoming
Air Quality
~
Alert level exceeded
for one or more pollutants
Primary standard exceeded
for one or more pollutants
No evidence primary standard
exceeded for any pollutant
Insufficient data,
monitoring not warranted
Air Quality
Most of the State of Wyoming enjoys
remarkably clean air, and abundant
energy and mineral resources destined for
development. The challenge is to provide
for such development while maintaining
the quality of life which the residents
expect.
Energy developments have brought rapid
population growth, such as in Gillette in
the northeast and Rock Springs in the
southwest. Coal mining and burning for
power production, coupled with urban air
quality problems resulting from "boom
town" growth, call for careful control to
avoid impacts on public health and
general welfare. Some deterioration of air
quality is unavoidable as new facilities
begin operation, but "best available
control technology" requirements and
special protection for the most scenic
areas are expected to keep the state's air
quality within safe limits.
In Sweetwater County, the development of
trona facilities has caused violations of
particulate standards. Trona is a natural
mineral which is converted to soda ash
(sodium carbonate), a widely used
chemical. A control program is expected
to eliminate violations of air quality
standards by the end of 1982.
Water Quality
Water quality data and assessments show
generally high quality water in most
stream segments in Wyoming, and no
significant problem in Wyoming. Municipal
point sources not complying with sewage
treatment standards are a concern.
Thirteen stream segments currently
exceed standards for bacteria, largely from
inadequately treated sewage. This problem
is being attacked through construction of
new facilities, and improved operation of
existing treatment plants. From 1973 to
1980, EPA allotted nearly $67 million to
the State of Wyoming for the construction
of sewage treatment facilities (EPA funds
75 percent of the cost, under the Clean
Water Act, the balance being paid from
State and/or local funds).
Non-point pollution of streams comes
from natural water runoff, agriculture and
such activities as mining, construction and
urban development. The pollutants include
salts (salinity), sediments, and nutrients
(from fertilizers, for example). Salinity in
the Green River Basin affects downstream
users of Colorado River waters. Sediment
and nutrient problems in the Flaming
Gorge Reservoir affect aquatic life and
recreational uses. Salinity, sediments and
nutrients in other streams may affect
lakes, reservoirs and municipal water
supplies. Goose and Little Goose Creeks
may not meet the 1983 goals because of
sewage discharges, seepage from septic
tanks, feedlot runoff and irrigation
practices. Haggerty Creek is the only
stream which is definitely not expected to
meet 1983 goals, due to groundwater
seepage from the Dos Lomas copper
mines.
Both EPA and State Water Quality Division
are addressing these problems through
planning and management of this vital
resource.
Wyoming
-------
v
Water Quality
Yellowstone
I . i K. -
Platte ^
r
Glendo
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
< Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Dissolved Solids
Nitrogen
| Major Water Quality Problems
| | Minor Water Quality Problems
m Infrequent Water Quality Problems
| No Data
Drinking Water
Management of adequate supplies of
healthful water is difficult in a semi-arid
state with a relatively small population
widely dispersed in communities, farms
and ranches. Both drinking water and
underground water protection are
regulated under the Federal Safe Drinking
Water Act. The State of Wyoming has
developed procedures for the protection of
groundwater quality. Until the State is
prepared to assume responsibility for
drinking water protection, EPA will
administer the monitoring, control and
enforcement program for public water
systems, working closely with the State
offices.
More than 900 public water systems have
been inventoried and notified of their
responsibilities under the Safe Drinking
Water Act. Most of the 300 systems which
serve year round resident populations
have completed initial monitoring for
bacteriological, turbidity, pesticide and
inorganic chemical quality. Many of the
600 non-community systems, which serve
transient or part-time populations, are now
sampling their water for bacteria, turbidity
and nitrates.
Problems receiving special attention
include systems using surface waters
without filtration, systems without
disinfection, the presence of nitrates,
mercury and selenium in a few supplies,
and deficiencies in the monitoring and
reporting of drinking water quality.
EPA has contracted with the University of
Wyoming to inventory underground
aquifers, and to assess their quantity,
quality and availability for development.
This study is of particular importance in
view of increasing mineral exploration and
extraction activities within the state.
Solid and Hazardous Waste
One of the purposes of the Federal
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
is to prohibit future open dumping, and to
require conversion of existing open dumps
to facilities which do not pose a danger to
the environment or to human health.
Some 31 municipalities in Wyoming with
populations greater than 3000 are being
studied by the State to evaluate present
solid waste disposal sites including
identifying possible groundwater impacts,
and checking for methane gas generation
within the sites.
The State Department of Environmental
Quality is developing a hazardous waste
management program to conform to
recent EPA regulations. The program aims
at controlling the generation, treatment,
transport and disposal of wastes known to
be toxic. A committee helping in this effort
has representation from Wyoming mining,
petroleum, agriculture, trucking and
government interests. The State has
located 1736 surface impoundments and
assessed their potential health hazards
both at the surface and via seepage into
underground water supplies.
Wyoming
-------
Toxic Substances
EPA provides engineering consultation
directly to school districts under the
school asbestos program. The known
hazards of breathing fine particles of
asbestos (used for insulation and on some
interior surfaces) include possible future
cancer and other respiratory ailments.
EPA has directly informed all persons
known to handle PCB's (polychlorinated
biphenyls) on the proper marking and
disposal regulations.
The widespread use of pesticides in an
agricultural state such as Wyoming
requires careful control of the
identification, use and container disposal
of these toxic chemicals. The State
Department of Agriculture certifies
individual applicators of restricted use
pesticides (i.e., those most toxic to
humans). A special problem in Wyoming
is the wind-caused drift of herbicides
which may cause damage to neighboring
crops, ornamental plants and trees.
Residual levels of pesticides in water are
being monitored to prevent poisoning of
aquatic and terrestrial life. The unique
pest management problems in Wyoming
call for experimental use of new pesticides
and for emergency exemptions which
require close monitoring for possible
unforeseen effects.
Radiation
Radiation problems exist now in Wyoming,
from natural sources and the remnants
of old facilities from the mining and
treatment of uranium ores. Of greater
magnitude are problems associated with
the development of new uranium mining
and milling complexes. Of major concern
is the development of solution mining of
uranium, where the mineral is dissolved in
place (in situ). Large amounts of water are
required and the potential for affecting
groundwater is high.
Noise
The noise environment in Wyoming can
generally be characterized as having quiet
regions typical of rural areas. The major
noise sources in Wyoming are those
associated with energy, especially coal
development operations, including mining
operations, coal trains and trucks.
Concern about community noise is
increasing in the larger urban areas of the
state. In 1980, EPA helped Laramie,
Casper and Cheyenne with local noise
control problems. Additional requests for
assistance from Wyoming cities have been
received. EPA's response to these requests
will depend on availability of resources to
adequately handle them.
Aircraft noise is a serious problem in
some areas of the state. In these areas,
low ambient sound levels cause aircraft
noise to be more intrusive for a longer
period of time than in typically louder
urban environments. Preservation of
pristine areas, quality of life for rural
residents, and possible adverse health
effects are all important issues related to
aircraft noise in Wyoming.
The problem in Jackson is an excellent
example of an environmental problem:
proponents of large jet aircraft access to
the Jackson Airport favor convenience
and speed of service; opponents object to
the noise levels which would be reached
in this quiet location.
Wyoming
-------
Benefits... Costs... Benefits... Costs...
BENEFITS OF AIR AND
WATER POLLUTION CONTROL
AIR
Reduced Materials
Wear and Tear
.£¦
A C&
Increased
Crop Yields
Reduced
Health Costs
72%
1978 Benefits', $23.3 billion in benefits
from air pollution control
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a
composite measure of the average prices
of a fixed collection, or market basket, of
goods and services . . . food, housing,
clothing, medical care, transportation,
entertainment, etc. When it costs more to
buy this market basket, the economy
experiences inflation . . . and we all know
about that. Environmental legislation adds
to inflation, but very little. Between 1970
and 1978, environmental legislation added
slightly more than three-tenths of one
percentage point to the annual rate of
increase of the CPI. This calculation is
based on gross costs and doesn't take into
account the benefits resulting from the
costs: the avoidance of prolonged illness
and early death and of damage to the
ecosystem. The major causes of inflation
were elsewhere ... in price rises in the
other items in the basket (22 percent food,
39 percent housing, 7.8 percent energy,
etc.).
Between 1980 and 1986, air and water
pollution controls will stimulate
employment; unemployment will be
reduced by an average of four-tenths of
one percentage point. This means, 400,000
people will have jobs in the pollution
control equipment industry, and jobs for
the operation and maintenance of this
equipment.
Between 1970 and 1979, no plants were
closed in EPA Region 8. Nationally, there
has been essentially no change in jobs
through plant closings because jobs were
created offsetting the losses.
A study done by University of Wyoming
and University of California scientists in
1979 showed that a 30 percent
improvement in air quality would increase
real estate values $500 per household
(determined by comparing selling prices
for similar houses in areas with different
air quality). Personal interviews with these
residents indicated a willingness to spend
$350 per household to achieve a 30
percent improvement. The cost of all
environmental programs in 1978 was $26.9
billion, or about $120 per person. From
1970-1977, total smoke and dust declined
by 12 percent. . . sulfur dioxide was
reduced by 30 percent.
"Cancer claims 400,000 lives per year . . .
one in four Americans . . . one person per
family. There is substantial evidence that
environmental factors are among the
major causes of cancer including potential
cancer-causing substances (called
carcinogens) in food, air, drinking water,
tobacco products, workplaces, drugs and
household products, as well as radiation.
Many people are exposed unknowingly."
The Regulatory Council, September 28,
1979.
"What is the price tag for lives saved by
avoiding future diseases, since asbestos
and other substances in our lives today
cause cancer in 30 years? How much will
you pay for a 6 year-old who is not
disfigured from flammable sleepwear?
How do we calculate the exact benefits of
being able to see across the Grand
Canyon, of avoiding needless destruction
of recreation areas?" Mark Greene, Public
Citizens Congress Watch.
1978 Benefits*, $12.3 billion in benefits
from water pollution control (excluding
unconventional pollutants)
"'The Benefits of Air and Water Pollution
Control: A Review and Synthesis of
Recent Estimates," A.M. Freeman III,
Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine
04011, August 1979.
Improvements to
Stream and Lake Ecology
(expressed in recreational
values)
54%
WATER
31
-------
-------
The Next Ten Years
Metals are necessary in low
concentrations for human and ecological
life. In larger doses they become poisons.
No mathematical projection could predict
this reversal of benefits from desirable to
toxic. Projections of the next ten years
may also be reversed, but they may be
useful in broadening and focusing our
vision. We are all beginning to realize that
all pollution always goes somewhere, but
our knowledge of exactly where, in what
form and with what impact is hazy. We all
know the cost for cleaning it up will
increase at least as fast as inflation, but
we are hard pressed to predict the
incremental costs above inflation, and an
outbreak of disease or system failure may
be necessary to uncover these postponed
expenses. "An ounce of prevention is
worth a pound of cure" should become
our first law of ecology.
Hazards associated with abandoned
dumps, chemicals that are classified as
toxics, radiation and conflicts over the
management and use of the Earth's
resources are on most people's lists of
issues to be dealt with in the 80's. Water
conservation, energy conservation, acid
rain, protection of prime agricultural land,
ground water and wetlands protection,
endangered species and recycling are
high on our personal agendas for action.
But where on our lists are the issues we
don't know about today . . . where on our
lists are the items aimed at prevention . . .
monitoring, surveillance, analysis,
research, epidemiology, conflict
resolution, public participation and free
press.
Perhaps the usefulness of this exercise of
extrapolating into the future is in
recognizing the potential for surprise, and
beginning to plan now for the
unpredictable. Delegating this
responsibility to the lowest practicable
level is probably wise . . . integrating our
judgment across political, geographical
and social, economic and media lines will
definitely produce more positive results.
-------
Suggested
Reading
Blueprint for Survival, by Edward
Goldsmith and other editors of the
ECOLOGIST. Houghton Mifflin Co., 1972.
The Closing Circle; Nature, Man and
Technology, by Barry Commoner. Knopf,
1971.
Design with Nature, by Ian McHarg.
Natural History Press for the American
Museum of Natural History, 1969.
Earth the Living Planet, by Michael J.
Bradshaw, Wiley, 1977.
Ecoscience: Population, Resources,
Environment, by Paul R. Ehrlich, Anna H.
Ehrlich, and John P. Holden. 2nd ed.
Wiley, 1977.
Environment and Man, by Richard
Wagner. Norton, 1974.
Environmental Quality 1979, by the
Council on Environmental Quality, U.S.
Government Printing Office, 1980.
From Sea to Shining Sea; a Report on the
American Environment Our Natural
Heritage, by the President's Council on
Recreation and Natural Beauty. U.S.
Government Printing Office, 1968.
Global 2000, by the Council on
Environmental Quality, U.S. Government
Printing Office, 1980.
Great Chain of Life, by Joseph Wood
Krutch. Pyramid, 1957.
The Human Future Revisited, by Harrison
Brown. Norton, 1978.
The Human Scale, by Kirkpatrick Sale,
Coward, McCann and Geoghegan. New
York, 1980.
Man, Nature and History: Controlling the
Environment, by W.M.S. Russell. Natural
History Press for the American Museum of
Natural History, 1969.
Reconciling Man with the Environment, by
Eric Ashby. Stanford University Press,
1978.
A Sand County Almanac, and Sketches
Here and There, by Aldo Leopold. Oxford
University Press, 1949.
Silent Spring, by Rachel Carson. Fawcett,
1962.
Small is Beautiful, E. F. Schumacher.
Harper, 1976.
Your Environment and What You Can Do
About It, by Richard Saltonstall, Jr. Walker
& Co., 1970.
-------
There are some problems that are too
large for the lone individual to deal with.
Environmental pollution is such a problem.
The People, that is to say the complex of
individuals, through their elected
representatives have said, "Government,
do this for us." Governments in this
country are only individuals doing a job
with which other individuals have charged
them.
The real test of the '80's may well be how
individuals make their choices. Many
environmental decisions made early in the
'70's were made in an economic
atmosphere markedly different from
today's.
But the individual's responsibility does not
stop there for two reasons. One, since
governments are made up of people, they
are not perfect and require the continuing
watchfulness by, and participation of, the
people they serve and two; because there
are still many things individuals must do
for themselves.
Will Americans continue to make wise
environmental decisions whicn almost
always have long-term economic benefits,
or will they tend to choose the deceptive
but tempting short-term economic benefits
of doing nothing where particular
pollution problems are concerned?
In our increasingly complex society, we
are faced by a seemingly overwhelming
array of problems and pressures. We
cannot afford to allow talented individuals
to "drop out" of the search for solutions.
While government can write standards,
administer funds, provide technical
assistance and enforce laws, it cannot and
should not, make consumer and lifestyle
decisions for households. Yet it is the
cumulative impact of such decisions
which are at the base of all environmental
problems.
6m
Gene Lucero
Deputy Regional Administrator
History will one day note the '70's were
the years we began to reclaim our
environment. Will it record the '80's as the
time we sustained or gave up the effort?
-------
For Further Information
If you need additional information about
specific EPA programs, please write to
EPA, 1860 Lincoln Street, Denver, CO
80295 or telephone the appropriate
number listed below. If you are
uncertain which number is correct, dial
(303) 837-5927.
General Subject Area Directory
Air Quality
837-3471
Auto Emissions
837-3763
State Implementation Plans
837-3711
Prevention of Significant
Deterioration (PSD) Review
837-3763
Water Quality
837-4871
Grants
837-3961
Planning
837-3886
Environmental Impact
Statements
837-4831
Control Technology Branch
837-2735
Solid Wastes
837-2221
Pesticides
837-3926
Toxic Materials
837-3926
Noise
837-4136
Radiation
837-4535
Energy Development
837-5914
Enforcement
837-3868
Permits
837-3760
Montana Operations Office
(406) 449-5432
301 South Park, Drawer 10096,
Helena MT 59601
Personnel Locator 837-2725
Library 837-2560
General assistance, requests for
speakers, films & non-technical
publications 837-5927
Oil Spills/Emergency Response
Metro-Denver 837-2468
Toll-free: CO Only 1-800-332-3321
Toll-free: Mt ND, SD, UT &
WYO 1-800-525-3022
If you would like more information on
issues closer to home, consider
beginning with your city or county
government. At the State level, the
following organizations stand ready to
assist you:
Colorado (AIR)
Department of Health
11th & Bellaire Streets, Denver CO 80220
320-4180
Colorado (Water and others)
Department of Health
4210 E. 11th Avenue, Denver CO 80220
320-8333
Montana
Department of Health
Environmental Sciences Division
Cogswell Building, Helena MT 59601
449-3946
North Dakota
Division of Environmental Engineering
1200 Missouri, Bismarck ND 58501
224-2348
South Dakota (Air)
Department of Health
Joe Foss Building, Pierre SD 57501
773-3329
South Dakota (Water)
Department of Water and
Natural Resources
Joe Foss Building, Pierre SD 57501
773-3329
Utah
Division of Environmental Health
P.O. Box 2500
Salt Lake City UT 84110
533-6121
Wyoming
Department of Environmental Quality
Hathaway Building, Cheyenne WY 82001
777-7937
For supplementary technical background
data on air and water quality trends see
Water and Air Quality Trends in Region 8,
(EPA 908/2-80/001 and 02).
------- |