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Table of Contents
Introduction 3
Water Quality Cooperative Agreement Grants 4
Funding 5
Headquarters Office of Wastewater Management 6
Regions 11
Region 1 12
Region 2 13
Region 3 14
Region 4 15
Region 5 16
Region 6 17
Region 7 18
Region 8 19
Region 10 20
Program Contacts 21
2
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Introduction
The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Water Quality Cooperative Agreement
Grants were created to promote investigation, experiments, training, demonstrations,
surveys, and studies relating to the causes, effects, extent, prevention, reduction, and
elimination of water pollution. [Comment: too wordy/long] The selected projects had to
attain tangible results.
This report highlights exceptional Water Quality Cooperative Agreement Grants from
Headquarters and the ten regions. Grant Project Officers from Headquarters and each
of the ten regions were asked to submit reports from grant projects that they found to
be particularly noteworthy. Five grants, chosen by headquarters, were included in this
report along with one or two grants from each of the regions.
The grants mentioned in this report are focused on improving the nation's wastewater
and drinking water systems and water quality of the nation's rivers and streams. Grant
projects also sought to improve water quality conditions and wastewater infrastructure
at the state and local level.
3
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Water Quality Cooperative Agreement Grants
Program Highlights
Priority projects included but were not limited to watershed approaches for solutions to wet weather ac-
tivities (i e combined sewer overflow, sanitary sewer overflow, stormwater discharge, and animal feed-
ing operations), pretreatment and biosolids (sludge) program activities, decentralized systems, and alter-
native ways to enhance or measure the effectiveness of point source programs In addition, selected
project exemplified transferability, protection of water quality, and environmental benefits for the areas
Grant projects presented in this report were conducted from 2000 to 2006
Background
Under the authority of Section 104(b)(3) of the Clean Water Act, the United States Environmental Pro-
tection Agency may provide grants to state water pollution control agencies, interstate agencies, munici-
palities, tribes, colleges and universities, and nonprofit organizations to promote the prevention, reduc-
tion and elimination of pollution
History
In 1992, Congress appropriated $16 million in grant funds to support implementation of the NPDES pro-
gram The funds were to be directed towards unique pilot or special studies and/or demonstrations that
would advance EPA's knowledge and ability to deal with point source water pollution problems The
projects were to be of a relatively short timeframe (one to two years) and provide tangible results
Funds were to be used for support of ongoing state programs
Following implementation of the grant program, the Clean Water Action Plan (CWAP), released in Feb-
ruary 1998, presented a broad vision of watershed protection, and included a new, cooperative ap-
proach to restoring and protecting water quality, referred to as the Water Quality Cooperative Agreement
(WQCA)
The CWAP requested state, federal, tribal, and local governments to work with stakeholders and inter-
ested citizens to 1) identify watersheds with the most critical water quality problems, and 2) work to-
gether to focus on resources and implement effective strategies to solve these problems Priority con-
sideration was to be given to implementing the CWAP and projects covering watershed, and activities
addressing stormwater, combined sewer overflows, mining, on-site systems, and animal feeding opera-
tions
Funds were to be used to focus on innovation demonstration and special projects that related to unified
watershed assessment and watershed restoration Projects or activities could have fallen under various
funding categories in Section 104 (b)(3) of the Clean Water Act including
Institutional Coordination,
NPDES Permits,
Environmental Management Systems (EMS),
Monitoring Assessment,
Program Measures and Environmental Indicators, and
Public Participation and Outreach
4
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Funding
Initial funding for the Water Quality Cooperative Agreement Grants was appropriated by Congress in FY
1992 Congress provided $16 million in grant funds to support and implementation of the program Pro-
ject funding typically ranged from $10,000 to $300,000 per fiscal year The average grant awarded by
Headquarters was $100,000 per fiscal year, and the average Regional award was $120,000 per fiscal
year Unfortunately, Congress ceased appropriating funds for the WQCA grants in 2006 However, of
the $271,337,961 appropriated since the FY 2006, approximately $1,032,325 still remains to fund new
projects Most of the remaining funds were made available when unused funds were deobligated from
previous projects upon completion
Historical CWA Section 104(3)(b) Funding
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
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TEAMS Asset Management
Tool
Introduction
The Maryland Center for Environmental Training
(MCET) provides site-specific environmental,
health and safety training and services for munici-
palities, private businesses and industry, and state
and federal agencies. Programs focus on deliver-
ing quality education and assistance to profession-
als in drinking water and wastewater operations,
areas in health and safety for employers and em-
ployees, technical outreach for industry, and com-
pliance assistance services.
Project Description
During this four year project, MCET developed
training materials on Asset Management for small
centralized wastewater utilities in Delaware and
Maryland. The training materials included a train-
the-trainer toolkit on Asset Management and an
open source software program called Total Elec-
tronic Asset Management System (TEAMS). The
Asset Management train-the-trainer course and
TEAMS software program covered a wide range of
subjects which included: establishing management
teams, developing objectives, conducting asset
inventory and condition assessments, developing
maintenance and rehabilitation programs, capital
improvement planning, and conducting program
administration. Asset Management Systems pro-
vided these small wastewater utility managers with
cost effective methods to improve their operational,
financial, and administrative functions.
Results
The TEAMS software package has been well re-
ceived by local communities and demonstrated at
various technical conferences. The software pack-
age was revealed at the Water Environment Fed-
eration's Annual Technical and Exhibition and Con-
ference (WEFTEC) in 2006 and over 200 copies
were distributed. Initial.TEAMS promotion has
been so successful that other organizations are
interested in implementing the software. For in-
stance, the Rural Community Assistance Partner-
ship (RCAP) is interested in including TEAMS in
their small community curriculum.
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Lessons Learned
This project exemplifies the way institutions can
work with local communities to improve their
wastewater systems. Although this project was
geared toward small communities with a capacity
of less than 5 million gallons per day, it can also be
applied to larger communities as well. In addition,
curriculum for the Asset Management Courses
continues to be amended to assist trainers and
wastewater managers in the technical and financial
aspects of their operations. Further negotiations
are also being conducted with municipal officials
around the country to hold additional conferences
and pilot studies of the Asset Management Pro-
gram and TEAMS software.
Grantee: College of Southern Maryland Center for
Environmental Training
Project Number: CP-83052801
Award Year: 2002
Award Amount: $450,000
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.
Water Sector
Collaboration on
Effective Utility Management
Introduction
The Water Environment Federation (WEF) was
established in 1928 as a not-for-profit technical and
educational organization. It now boosts 32,000
members and 80 Member Associations which rep-
resent 50,000 water quality professionals around
the world. The WEF and its members work to
achieve the organization's mission of preserving
and enhancing the global water environment.
recommendations. The EPA and the associations
are also working to implement the following reports
which provide the tools necessary for utilities to
have a more successful and effective management
of their operations:
• A Final Agreement on Effective Utility Manage-
ment
• A Final Report from the Effective Utility Man-
agement Steering
Committee
• A Fact Sheet describing the initiative
• A list of implementation Actions EPA and the
Associations plan to
undertake
Lessons Learned
Water
Envif
•ornnent
Fed
erati
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Project Description
In 2006, EPA partnered with six associations repre-
senting water and wastewater utilities to form the
Effective Utility Management Steering Committee.
The Committee identified common challenges and
barriers facing utilities and made numerous recom-
mendations for water and wastewater utilities to
improve utility management. As a result of the rec-
ommendations, the Committee drafted a series of
reports entitled, Attributes of Effectively Managed
Utilities, Keys to Management Success, and Sam-
ple Performance Measures. These recommenda-
tions set the groundwork for the development of a
common management framework designed to en-
sure that utility operations and infrastructure are
sustainable.
This project and EPA's work with the association
partners, demonstrates the need and value of col-
laboration between EPA and industry to ensure
sustainable utility operations and infrastructure.
The final products that were funded through this
grant reflect the consensus of leading utilities,
EPA, and six national associations that represent
water and wastewater utilities throughout the coun-
try. The cooperative and collaborative efforts truly
embodied the vision and goals of the project. It is
unlikely that such a consensus would have been
possible without such teamwork.
Results
Following the creation of the common management
framework, the six national associations signed a
Statement for Support signaling their intentions to
work both individually and cooperatively to promote
and encourage the adoption of the Committee's
Grantee: Water Environment Federation (WEF)
Project Number: CP83295001-0
Award Year: 2006
Award Amount: $126,000
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Documenting and Improving
Energy Use in Water Quality
Systems
Introduction
The University of Florida's Training Research, and
Education for Environmental Organizations
(TREEO) Center is dedicated to helping protect the
environment for future generations by incorporating
sustainable practices into all aspects of their opera-
tions. The Center has provided Excellence in
Environmental Training to hundreds of students in
the past three decades.
Results
As a result of the project, a new energy efficiency
training manual for water and wastewater facilities
was developed along with an instructor manual and
participant workbook. Curriculum for trainers of
wastewater operators was broadened to include
water treatment, stormwater management, and
reclaimed water. The success of the pilot training
session prompted additional training sessions to be
held across the country. Presentations were given
at four Clean Water Act 104(g) training centers and
manuals were distributed to all CWA104(g) Opera-
tor Training Centers.
Project Description
This project was designed to establish a national
advisory workgroup for the identification and cate-
gorization of new energy efficiency strategies and
technologies for water and wastewater facilities. It
developed a new manual on energy efficiency for
water and wastewater plants, and accompanying
training tools and aids. The Center presented its
peer-reviewed manuals at a pilot tested train-the-
trainer session in Manchester, New Hampshire for
wastewater operators. The presentation, entitled
"Documenting and Improving Energy Use in Water
Quality Systems," was designed to assist trainers
on energy efficiency for water and wastewater
treatment plants
Lessons Learned
Following the initial pilot training sessions, numer-
ous other training sessions were held in Florida
and at conferences throughout the country. States
had the option to utilize the TREEO center's man-
ual and trainer toolkit or develop their own. Con-
tinued efficiency improvements on water and
wastewater facilities will diminish their carbon foot-
print and environmental impact.
Grantee: University of Florida Center for Training,
Research, and Education for Environmental Organi-
zations— TREEO
Project Number: CP-830676-01-0
Award Year: 2002
Award Amount: $63,7444
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Protocols for Assessing Con-
dition and Performance of
Water and Wastewater Assets
Introduction
The Water Environment Research Foundation is a
nonprofit organization that helps utilities and corpo-
rations preserve water and protect human health
by enhancing water resource management through
science and technology research. The Founda-
tion's research has answered the needs of utilities,
municipalities, environmental engineering and con-
sulting firms, government agencies, equipment
manufactures, and industrial organizations. Its
research is focused on conveyance systems, infra-
structure management, wastewater treatment and
reuse, solids treatment, residuals, watershed man-
also evaluated based on their economic and finan-
cial impact. The research provided reviews of 83
individual condition assessment tools and tech-
niques as well as a discussion of applications,
practical considerations, and advantages and limi-
tations of the various asset types.
Results
A prototype expert system was developed based
on research and case studies from various utilities.
The system was designed to facilitate the selection
of condition assessment tools using software sys-
tems which provide a framework for updating,
maintaining, and distributing refinements of asset
types and updating and refining tools for reviews
in the future. Recommendation criteria for select-
ing conditions and performance assessment tools
and techniques were also developed from the re-
agement, and water quality. The investigators
come from a wide range of backgrounds including
municipal agencies, academia, government agen-
cies, and industrial consulting firms. The diversity
of expertise promotes creative and innovative solu-
tions to water management.
Project Description
This project was designed to identify and document
distribution assets and the broad range of available
condition assessment tools and techniques for wa-
ter and wastewater collection. Distribution assets
and assessment tools include sewer mains, instal-
lation valves, pumping facilities, assess pits, and
stacks used in the delivery to wastewater treatment
sites. Research and case studies from around the
world were complied to serve as a road map for
implementing assessment tools and distribution
assets into their systems. A wide variety of asset
types were studied based on their technical feasi-
bility, technical suitability, and utility technical ca-
pacity. For utility consideration, asset types were
search. A guide for utilities to integrate condition
and assessment programs into their overall man-
agement framework was also developed.
Lessons Learned
Further innovations of tools used for water and
wastewater facilities are needed to made to im-
prove the efficiency of utilities around the world.
The results from this research will ensure that
wastewater and water utilities have the resources
available to improve their infrastructure and invest
in asset tools that will continue to enhance the
function of their operations.
Grantee: The Water Environment Research Foun-
dation
Project Number: CP-83112101-0
Award Year: 2003
Award Amount: $210,563
9
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Credential Development for
On-site Wastewater System
Installers
stantially improve professional standards within the
on-site wastewater industry. It, along with the as-
sociated training program will encourage the adop-
tion of the USEPA Voluntary Management Guide-
lines for OSWS.
Introduction
The National Environmental Health Association
(NEHA), established in 1937, is a professional so-
ciety for environmental health practitioners. The
organization developed credentials for health pro-
fessionals and includes seven national credential
programs. The association holds a number of
technical workshops each year. Its mission is "to
advance the environmental health and protection
professional for the purpose of providing a healthful
environment for all." NEHA is focused on develop-
ing quality educational programs.
Results
NEHA's unveiled a credential examination at their
June 2006 conference. It was an important step
toward raising the competency level and profes-
sionalism of the on-site industry. Thus far, six ex-
aminations have been conducted at various loca-
tions, and NEHA has certified 76 installers for on-
site wastewater. Nine states have shown an inter-
est in the installer credential program, and NEHA
has been working with them for adoption of this
certification program.
NEH/\
TRAINING
The Regulator's Choice'"
Project Description
The project improved water quality by ensuring that
the On-Site Wastewater System (OSWS) installers
have adequate knowledge of environmental health.
Lessons Learned
The development of the certification program for
on-site wastewater system installers was the first
certification program established by the EPA that
was directly geared toward on-site wastewater sys-
tem installers. Throughout the certification proc-
ess, stakeholder groups and subject matter experts
worked together to develop the program. The suc-
cessful process through which the credential pro-
gram was developed could serve as a template for
future credential programs that the EPA and other
agencies are seeking to pursue. However, only
with adequate marketing of the certification for on-
site wastewater system installers will the program
continue to succeed.
National Environmental
Health Association
The NEHA developed credentials for OSWS in-
stallers and created a national level certification
program. An examination for OSWS will be devel-
oped to determine if installers possess the required
level of knowledge and skills. Once installers are
certified, NEHA will maintain a database of installer
credentials, educational records, and recodification
records. The OSWS credential is designed to sub-
Grantee: National Environmental Health Associa-
tion (NEHA)
Project Number: CP-83153101
Award Year: 2004
Award Amount: $267,000
10
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Guam Puerto Rico
American Samoa Virgin Islands
Trust Territories
Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands
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Think Blue Massachusetts
Bay Stormwater Education
Campaign
Introduction
The Massachusetts Bays Estuary Association
(MBEA) was established in 2004 to educate the
public and raise awareness about threats to Mas-
sachusetts' bays. The association's advocacy pro-
grams support recognition and admiration for Mas-
sachusetts' natural resources.
Project Description
This project originated through a partnership be-
tween MBEA and the Massachusetts' Bays Pro-
gram which is aimed towards educating the public
on polluted stormwater. The campaign called
"Think Again. Think Blue,'' was adopted from a San
Diego stormwater campaign called "Think Blue."
The MBEA campaign used the media and the print
market to alert the public of the significant problem
of polluted stormwater. The goal of the program
was to improve coastal water quality by reducing or
eliminating polluted stormwater runoff. To achieve
this goal, the campaign urges citizens to push for
stormwater management in their communities.
local events. The campaign's partnership with the
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission enabled the
Connecticut River Cleanup Committee to develop
its own "Think Blue" campaign. This partnership
commission also gave the MBEA an opportunity to
further clarify its mission through radio broadcasts.
The organization publishes an e-newsletter entitled
"Stormy Report" and members attend science and
environmental events to educate the public on pol-
luted stormwater. The organization developed a
website www.thinkagainthinkblue.org that has links
for its e-newsletter, products, and upcoming
events. In addition, a toolbox was developed for
municipalities, community groups, and non-profits
to implement the campaign in their area.
Lessons Learned
The development of this campaign exemplifies the
way a grassroots campaign can be easily trans-
lates in different areas of the country. Communi-
cating the goals and objectives of the "Think Blue"
campaign will improve coastal waters by decreas-
ing the amount of polluted water flowing into the
nation's bays. Efforts made by this and future
"Think Blue" campaigns will enable individuals to
impact their communities by encouraging utilities to
manage stormwater.
THINK BLUE
MASSACHUSETTS
Results
As a result of the "Think Again. Think Blue" cam-
paign, new partnerships have been forged between
MBEA and MBP and tools for interested parties
were developed and a webstie was created to as-
sist in furthering the organizations goals. MBEA
and MBP have coordinated efforts with cities, mu-
nicipalities, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commis-
sion, and other non-profit groups. For instance, a
partnership with the City of Cambridge led to the
incorporation of the "Think Blue" campaign into
~•SUPPORT US
* STORMY REPORT
Grantee: Massachusetts Bays Estuary Association
Project Number: CP-97143501-0
Award Year: 2005
Award Amount. $44,000
12
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The New Jersey Animal Feed-
ing Operation Outreach and
Non-point Source Pollution
Check-up Program
Bureau attend their meetings to inform their mem-
bers of AFO and CAFO regulations and non-point
source pollution management. The NJPHA has
educated its membership about AFO and CAFO
regulations, and the horse community at large.
Members of the organizations found the informa-
tion presented by the New Jersey Farm Bureau
very helpful. The Bureau stressed the importance
of taking a proactive stance towards protecting
New Jersey's water quality and informed the mem-
bers that anyone could be regulated if found pollut-
ing in state waterways. Also, members of the farm-
ing community who were in attendance, have re-
quested confidential farm consultations in order to
implement non-point source man-
agement techniques on their farms.
The Bureau also held a seminar for
horse owners. The seminar pro-
vided valuable information to horse
owners about programs offered by
state and federal agencies concern-
ing non-point source management.
The Bureau also provided insight on
effective ways to manage manure
and discussed methods for identify-
ing pollution control measures on farms.
Lessons Learned
Through education and outreach to livestock or-
ganizations in New Jersey, non-point source pollu-
tion of state waterways can be reduced. When
these organizations have adequate knowledge of
resources and service agencies available to assist
them in complying with the AFO and CAFO regula-
tions, they will be more willing to implement non-
point source management techniques.
Introduction
Project Description
The New Jersey Farm Bureau edu-
cated livestock producers, members [
of 48 livestock commodity groups,
4-H animal club leaders, and other organizations
about AFO and CAFO regulations. Letters were
sent to these agricultural groups to inform them of
non-point source regulations, the AFO process in
New Jersey, and contact information for assis-
tance. In addition, the Bureau visited livestock or-
ganizations and offered them free confidential con-
sultations for their farm using "On Farm Strategies
to Protect Water Quality" for non-point source man-
agement. In total, 25 consults were performed to
specifically address non-point source pollution and
how to apply best management practices (BMPs).
The New Jersey Farm Bureau (NJFB) represents
agricultural producers and enterprises at federal,
state, local and international levels. The Bureau
influences regulations and laws and builds relation-
ships with the public. In addition, the New Jersey
Farm Bureau seeks out initiatives, activities, and
ventures to boost the profitability of
agricultural producers and enter-
prises across New Jersey. Repre-
sentatives from every part of the
state serve to manage the organiza-
tion.
Results
Since the grant was awarded, the Bureau has vis-
ited three agricultural organizations including the
Equine Advisory Board, which represents 52 or-
ganization, the New Jersey Beef Industry Council,
and the Salem County 4-H Hoofbeats. In addition,
the New Jersey Horse and Carriage Society
(NJHCS), the Salem County 4-H Leaders Associa-
tion, and the New Jersey Professional Horsemen's
Association (NJPHA) have all requested that the
Grantee: New Jersey Bureau Research Foundation
Award Year: 2003
Award Amount: $52,500
13
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vvaier uuamy cooperative agreement grants accompnsnmeni rcepori
Region 3
Demonstrating and Transfer-
ring a "Green Highways"
Watershed Approach to In-
novative Stormwater Man-
agement in the Mid-Atlantic
Introduction
The Global Environmental Technology
Foundations( GETF) is a non-profit organization
aimed at shaping a better environment through
sustainable development. GETF has worked
successfully with federal and state agencies,
foundations, companies, non-profit organizations,
and multilateral development agencies. Their
work has focuses on such areas as technology
innovation, energy and climate, environmental
security, environmental finance, information
sharing, partnership development, water and
sanitation, and international development.
The Low Impact Development (LID) Center is a
non-profit organization that
was established in
order to provide information
to individuals and
organizations dedicated to
protecting water
resources. The Center is
aimed towards the
advancement of Low
Impact Development
technology, which is a new
comprehensive land plan-
ning and engineering
approach focused on
maintaining the natural hydrologic regime of
urban watersheds. LID educates individuals and
organization on site design techniques that repli-
cate pre-existing hydrologic conditions in order to
restore watersheds in urban and developed areas.
Project Description
The two organizations worked with various stake-
holders to develop "Green Highways,'' which is a
new watershed approach for transportation pro-
jects that achieves "beyond compliance and better
The Low impact
Development Center, Inc.
than before" environmental results. The "Green
Highways" approach to highway design incorpo-
rates Best Management Practices (BMPs) that ad-
dress watershed issues, conservation, and ecosys-
tem management. It also promotes recycling and
the reuse of materials. The GETF and LID both
provided educational outreach and technical assis-
tance to the communities wishing to utilize the
"Green Highways" approach.
Results
The GETF and LID developed a green infrastruc-
ture based on BMPs that was easily understood
and implemented by highway planners, elected
officials, engineers, local governments, and stake-
holders to solve priority water quality watershed
problems. Highways are normally based on pre-
dictable design patterns that do not fit into a new
watershed management approach. The GETF and
LID Center established baseline protocols and met-
rics for watershed-based innovative stormwater
management. Through the use of GIS and BMPs,
the GETF and LID Center were able to examine
the watershed and identify mitigation opportunities.
In addition, a prototype Environmental Manage-
ment System (EMS) was developed with indicators
for the proposed "Green Highway" project. In-
cluded in the project was an interactive website
designed to facilitate communication and outreach
to stakeholders and the community on a wide
range of topics concerning cost-effective stormwa-
ter management.
Lessons Learned
In response to the project and interactive website,
hundreds of stakeholder groups have been inter-
ested in implementing a more innovative highway
design that incorporates watershed restoration.
This project exemplifies the benefits of cooperation
between communities and non-profits and the use
of technology in improving watershed health.
Grantee: Global Environment & Technology Foun-
dation & Low Impact Development Center
Project Number: CP-973363-01 (GETF) and CP-
973375-01 (LID)
Award Year: 2006
Award Amount: $365,000
14
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water uuanty cooperative Agreement brants Accompiisnment Keport
B3@8®cd6
Get the Dirt Out
Introduction
The Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper is a non-
profit organization whose mission is to advocate
and secure protection of the Chattahoochee River
The organization protects the rivers tributaries and
watershed to restore and preserve ecological
health for the local communities, fish, and wildlife
that depend on the river system Established in
1994, the organization has over 4,600 members
dedicated solely to protecting and restoring the
Chattahoochee River Basin which serves as the
drinking water source for over 3 5 million people in
Georgia
thirds of those sites had major problems The local
governments were made aware of the severity of
the problem and became more responsive to citi-
zen complaints
CHEE
Keepino Watc.fi Over Our Waters
Project Description
The purpose of this project was to educate the lo-
cal communities surrounding the Upper Chatta-
choochee on Georgia's construction industry re-
quirements The organization dispensed a variety
of educational training materials to Riverkeeper
members, local watershed organizations, the gen-
eral public, and developers The materials were
designed to inform the public on stream water qual-
ity problems caused by sediment-laden runoff from
construction sites Educational materials elabo-
rated on Best Management Practices (BMPs) and
what constitutes a good or bad BMP for Georgia's
construction permitting process Riverkeeper per-
sonnel were also trained on how to assess the ef-
fectiveness of BMPs for construction sites located
along the Upper Chattachoochee watershed
Lessons Learned
The state general construction permits are
written to protect state waters from con-
struction site generated sediment State
and local governments are responsible for
preventing sediment from entering local
water bodies from construction activities
However, many state and local govern-
ments are seriously under funded even
though permit fees are collected at both
levels. Other state organizations in North
Carolina and Alabama have adopted the
"Get the Dirt Out'" program for their water-
sheds to assist local governments in pre-
venting runoff from construction sites
Results
In 30 workshops held throughout the state, the
Riverkeeper provided information to more that 500
citizens, developers, and local government officials
about the purpose and requirements of Georgia's
construction general permits The project website
(www qetthedirtout org) includes several printable
documents including a training manual and work-
book, a BMP field guide, and a two-page Stormwa-
ter Permitting Guide to Land Disturbance Activities
for Developers and Local Governments Over 100
construction sites were assessed for proper imple- Award Amount $93,900
mentation of construction BMPs and about two-
Grantee Upper Chattachoochee Riverkeeper
Project Number CP-96417805
Award Year 2005
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water uuanty uooperative Agreement brants Accompiisnment Keport
Region 5
Michigan Department of
Environmental Quality
Introduction
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
(MDEQ) was established in 1995 as a sister
agency to Michigan's Department of Natural Re-
sources (DNR) The MDEQ regulates land, air,
water, and solid waste within the State of Michigan
Project Description
This project focused on TMDLs, stormwater educa-
tion and outreach, a Sanitary Sewer Overflow
(SSO) Control Program, and regulation of publicly-
owned treatment works (POTWs) TMDLs were
determined for creeks, rivers, and extension drains
including Ball Creek, Plaster Creek, Sawyer Creek,
McKinzie Creek, Little Black Creek, Black Creek,
Ecorse River, Clam River, and the Eau Clair Exten-
sion Drain Stormwater education and outreach
across Michigan were orchestrated through a grant
given to the Center for Environmental Studies
(CES) Through cooperation between the Center,
MDEQ, and an advisory committee, a stormwater
campaign was developed for statewide utilization
In addition, the SSO Control Program was devel-
oped in 2000 to identify and correct conditions re-
sulting in SSO municipal sewer systems Follow-
ing the development of the program, Section 3112a
of Part 31 of the Water Resource Protection of the
Natural Resources and Environmental Protection
Act (NREPA) was amended, mandating that all
discharges of "untreated or partially treated sew-
age" into Michigan waters be reported to the
MDEQ and local health authorities Additionally, a
survey of all POTWs was conducted to obtain infor-
mation on the character of industrial wastewater
Results
Following the TMDL assessments for creeks and
rivers in Michigan, two creeks were removed from
the 303(d) list of impaired water bodies For the
stormwater education and outreach program, a
campaign building toolkit was created containing
graphics adaptable for local use, new articles ready
to publish, display concepts and ideas, brochure
examples, media advertisements, and various
other marketing tools A pilot workshop was util-
ized to test the toolkit components, and due to its
success, it has been used in multiple workshops
for community training
After the development of the SSO Control Program
and amended legislation, 200 municipalities in 65
of Michigan's 84 counties were identified as having
multiple SSO events In response to the frequency
of SSO occurrences, the Chief of the Water Divi-
sion for MDEQ created a full-time position respon-
sible for coordinating SSO initiatives within the Wa-
ter Division To facilitate reporting of new SSO
events, as required by Section 3112a of the
NREPA, a standardized reporting form was devel-
oped and a website was created for posting re-
ported information http //www deq state mi us/swq/
csossoindex html A statewide workshop was also
held to educate municipalities, consultants, regula-
tors, and other interested parties on the SSO Con-
trol Program In 2001, an enforcement-based ac-
tion plan for the SSO Strategy Implementation was
finalized The plan prioritized actions which were
required to bring communities in need of formal
SSO programs into four groups based on their sys-
tem size and SSO discharge frequency The
MDEQ recently began developing a statewide cor-
rective program and schedule to be incorporated
into an enforceable document such as NPDES per-
mits or orders
Following the survey of POTWs that collect indus-
trial wastewater, information provided by certain
treatment plants was insufficient to determine a
required action In those cases, site visits and tele-
phone follow-ups were conducted by the MDEQ
As the result of these efforts, the MDEQ identified
three groundwater POTWs which receive industrial
wastewater and are subject to categorical pretreat-
ment standards The identified facilities are re-
quired to develop an Industrial Pretreatment Pro-
gram for their NPDES permit
Lessons Learned
State environmental departments nationwide can
develop similar improvement programs to control
SSO and regulate industrial wastewater Compo-
nents of the stormwater education toolkit can also
be used by communities across the country
Grantee Michigan Department of Environmental
Quality
Project Number CP-97546502-0
Award Year 2003
Award Amount $499,164
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Microbial Source Tracking
Introduction
The Nebraska Department of Environmental Qual-
ity was established as a result of the Nebraska En-
vironmental Protection Act of 1971. The depart-
ment's goal is to protect Nebraska's air, land, and
water resources.
Nebraska
Department
of Environ
Project Description
The project determined whether human, livestock,
or other animal wastes were sources of fecal bac-
teria in the Plum Creek watershed. To determine
which sources were affecting Plum Creek, the Mi-
crobial Source Tracking (MST) tools were evalu-
ated that included, E. coli, coliphage, and bacte-
rids 16s rDNA host-associated maker.
Results
Results of the study found that
both the E. coli and bacteriodales
MST tools showed evidence of
fecal contamination in the water-
shed. E.coli presence supported
that cattle and wildlife were
sources of E. coli to both the sedi-
ment and water. Presence of bac-
teriodales supported that cattle and horses in the
water as well as human contributed to fecal mate-
rial in the sediment. The study was also published
in the Journal of Environmental Quality.
Lessons Learned
This technique could be applied in other water-
sheds to identify best management practices for
reducing fecal bacteria from livestock, animal
wastes, and humans.
Grantee: Nebraska Department of Environmental
Quality
Project Number: CP-98740101-1
Award Year: 2004
Award Amount: $112,375
Jack's Fork Watershed
Sinkhole Project
Introduction
The Top of the Ozarks Resource Conservation and
Development, Inc. was established by Congress in
1965. The organization includes the R & CD
Council comprised of representatives from nine
counties in South Central Missouri. The mission of
the organization and council is to assist local com-
munities in managing natural resources by devel-
oping the maximum potential use of all resources.
Project Description
The Ozarks is a karst environment with numerous
sinkholes that are connected to streams and rivers
throughout the area. The sinkhole formations fa-
cilitate the transport of pollutants. This project
gathered information on three hundred sinkholes.
Each sinkhole was measured, evaluated for envi-
ronmental concerns, mapped, and formatted for
GIS.
Results
A report was created identifying the location and
condition of 300 sinkholes were located in the area
through interactive GIS maps. The report and in-
teractive GIS maps are available on the website
http://www.i-maps.com/jakcsfork/. The project re-
sults also indicated where the flow surfaced and
groundwater flow for five sinkholes.
Lessons Learned
This project could be replicated in many other karst
environments and provide a good visual and edu-
cational tool to educate both local citizens and
natural resource agencies on the prevalence and
importance of sinkholes in preserving water quality.
Grantee: Top of the Ozarks Resource Conservation
& Development, Inc.
Project Number: CP-98751301-2
Award Year: 2004
Award Amount: $72,221
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water Quality Cooperative Agreement brants Accomplishment Report
Region 8
iV
Mobility, Extractability, and
Fate of Metals in Long-
Term Biosolids Field
Experiments
Introduction
Colorado State's Department of Soil and Crop Sci-
ences emphasizes the production and manage-
ment of food, feed and fiber crops to meet human
needs and protect the environment The Depart-
ment's research scientists and extension special-
ists are engaged in soil and crop research covering
a wide range of basic and applied problems
Project Description
This project was designed to promote understand-
ing soil mobility, extractability, and fate from two
long-term biosolids through the analysis of soil
samplings Specifically, the project examined the
long-term environmental effects of a single or multi-
ple application on rangeland or agricultural soil,
and the short-term effects of repeat application on
rangeland soil The project tested for the presence
of a wide variety of elements in biosolids and soils
including common compounds of nitrogen, phos-
phorus, arsenic, nickel, lead, and zinc
Results
Through the soil analysis, it was found that metals
while land-applied biosolids did cause persistent
changes in soil chemical properties A majority of
metals were found at the surface, some were ob-
served below the surface Both lead and magne-
sium oxide were found in biosolids samples
Grantee Colorado State University, Department of
Soil and Crop Sciences
Award Year 2003
Award Amount $85,624
Plants and Soil Response to
Biosolids Application
Following Forest Fire
Project Description
This project was designed to determine the effects
of wildfires on indigenous forest soil microorgan-
isms, their recovery rates in response to wildfires,
and the impact of traditional remediation strategies
on soil microbial communities The recovery of
fungal biomass and microbial community structure
in soils was monitored over time in order to assess
the potential of traditional remediation practices
aimed towards accelerating the recovery of micro-
organisms Soils were collected and analyzed to
monitor the recovery of microbial communities over
time
Results
The project revealed that soil moisture content was
an important factor in influencing community struc-
ture In comparing burned soil community struc-
ture with that of unburned soil and hydromulch
treated soil it was determined that by treating
burned soil with hydromulch, the negative effect of
fire on microorganisms may aid in their recovery,
as well as improve soil fertility, soil moisture reten-
tion, and prevent soil erosion
Lessons Learned
This project exemplifies universities' ongoing re-
search into environmental science Knowledge
gained from these grants is being used to educate
future scientists in the field of soil and crop sci-
ences Universities across the country should be
recognized for their efforts in the field of environ-
mental science
Grantee' Colorado State University, Department of
Soil and Crop Sciences
Award Year 2001
Award Amount $89,386
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water uuanty cooperative Agreement brants Accompiisnmeru Kepon
Oregon Total Maximum Daily
Load (TMDL) Development
Introduction
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
was established in 1969 as an independent state
agency designed to protect and enhance Oregon's
water and air quality
Project Description
The project was designed to support completing
high priority TMDLs for the region by gaining an
understanding of thermal pollution and enhancing
existing temperature and modeling capabilities
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
(DEQ) collected thermal infrared stream tempera-
ture data through Flight-based, Forward-looking
Infrared Radiometry (FLIR) for 400 stream miles in
the Umpqua River basin To further support TMDL
development, the Oregon Department of Environ-
mental Quality improved an existing temperature
model and designed a user interface and manual
for it
Results
By utilizing FLIR, the Oregon DEQ could collect
comprehensive and accurate temperature data for
TMDL development Improvement in the function
of the model made it ore efficient, user-friendly
Improvement in the function of the model allowed it
to become more efficient, user-friendly, and appli-
cable to TMDLs The Oregon DEQ has made the
model available to stakeholders and provided train-
ing and assistance to users, thereby fostering col-
laboration and contributing to a successful, coop-
erative TMDL process
Lessons Learned
The employment of new techniques aimed towards
improving existing water quality models will contrib-
ute to the better management of water resources
and understanding of environmental factors affect-
ing state waters
Grantee Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality
Grant Number CP-97015701
Award Year 2004
Award Amount $468,000
Baseline Water Quality Moni-
toring for Eyak Lake Orca
Inlet
Introduction
The Native Village of Eyak is a tribal community in
Alaska with 500 members that rely on subsistence
farming and commercial harvests of seafood lo-
cally
Project Description
The project studied effects of harbor activities and
wastewater discharges on Orca Inlet and Eyak
Lake in Alaska A baseline assessment of water
quality in the area was conducted to determine the
presence of pollutants and their sources The Vil-
lage also conducted homeowner interviews to help
determine potential pollution sources The project
field work and interviews were conducted entirely
by tribal members
Results
The Native Village of Eyak was able to obtain valu-
able information related to water quality, pollutants
of concern, and shoreline surveys for the Inlet and
Lake Information gained from the study was used
to develop a surface water clean-up plan In re-
sponse to the study, the Village was also able to
plant razor clams in Orca Inlet This project in-
cluded extensive outreach to the tribal leadership
and community using the study results to encour-
age others to reduce or eliminate discharge of pol-
lutants into these waters
Lessons Learned
This project exemplifies the way program manag-
ers at the EPA can work with tribal communities to
gain valuable insight into their local environments
Based on the success of this project, EPA should
continue to work with tribes and extend their sup-
port to tribal communities that wish to improve their
environment
Grantee Native Village of Eyak
Grant Number CP-97087601
Award Year 2006
Award Amount $158,500
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uuaiity cooperative agreement grants Mccompnsnment rcepon
Water Quality Cooperative Agreement (Grants
Clean Water Act Section 104(b)(3)
I
Headquarters and Regional
Contacts
Headquarters Contacts
Barry Benroth
(202) 564-0672
benroth.barry@epa.gov
Jim Home
(202) 567-0571
home jim@epa gov
John Flowers
(202) 564-0624
flowers john@epa gov
Steve Albee
(202) 564-0581
albee.steve@epa gov
Gajindar Singh
(202) 564-0643
singh gajindar@epa gov
Region 1
Jeanne Cosgrove
(617)918-1669
cosgrove jeanne@epa gov
Region 2
Elizabeth VanRabenswaay
(212)637-3881
vanrabenswaay elizabeth@epa gov
Region 3
Patricia Iraci
(215)814-5727
Iraci patricia@epa gov
Region 4
Ed Springer
(404) 562-8410
springer ed@epa gov
Region 5
Kristen Faulhaber
(312) 353-4378
faulhaber kristen@epa gov
Region 6
Teresita (Terry) Mendiola
(214)665-7144
mendiola teresita@epa gov
Region 7
Mandy Whitsitt
(913) 551-7311
whitsitt.mandy@epa gov
Region 8
Jennifer Harris
(303)312-6372
Harris.jennifer@epa gov
Region 9
Christina (Tina) Yin
(415) 972-3579
yin christina@epa gov
Region 10
Janette Rau
(206) 553-0483
rau.janette@epa gov
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