United States Environmental Protection Agency
Region 9, San Francisco, California
November 2009
Tribal Program Newsletter
Meetings and Conferences
Tribal Nations Conference, Nov. 5.
The White House has issued invitations to each federally recognized tribe and asked that each tribe send
only one representative because of space constraints. Please see your invitation and respond according
to its instructions to ensure that your tribe's representative is included on the list of attendees. For more
information, go to http://www.ncai.org/ or call 202-466-7767
Sponsor: Nielsen Environmental Field School
Jan 12-15
2010 North American
Environmental Field
Conference & Exposition
Tampa, FL
www.envirofieldconference.com
Sponsor: Northeast Waste Management Officials Association (NEWMOA)
Nov17-18
2009 Mercury Science and
Policy Conference
Chicago, IL
www.newmoa.orq/prevention/mercurv
/conferences/sciandpolicv/reqistration.
cfm
Sponsor: SRA International and NativeEnergy
Nov16-19
National Brownfields
Conference
New Orleans, LA
Janice Sims, 202 566-2892 or
www.brownfields2009.org
Sponsor: Environmental Protection Agency
Nov16-19
Dec. 7-11
Jun6-10
Brownfield Conference
Tribal Science Council Fall
Meeting
2010 National Tribal
Science Forum
New Orleans, LA
Washington, DC
Traverse City, Ml
Janice Sims, 202 566-2892
www.brownfields2009.org
Monica L. Rodia, 202-564-8322;
http://www.epa.gov/osp/tribes.htm
Monica L. Rodia, 202-564-8322
http://www.epa.gov/osp/tribes.htm
Trainings and Workshops
Sponsor: Environmental Protection Agency
Dec 7-11
Water Quality
Standards Training
Academy
Washington, DC
http://www.glec-
online.com/WQSA sessions/session
1/form1.php
Sponsor: Department of Energy
Nov. 16-19
Tribal energy Program
Review
Denver, CO
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/tribale
nergy/upcoming_events.cfm
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
S|
Donsor: Northwest Environmental Training Center i
Dec. 2-3
Jan 13-14
and
Jan 20-21
Underground Storage
Tank Installation
Training
Underground Storage
Tank Inspection
Training
Online only
Online only
On-line training only)
http://nwetc.orq/wapol-406 12-09 online.htm
206-762-1976
http://nwetc.orq/wapol-406 12-09 online.htm
http://nwetc.orq/wapol-405 01-10 online.htm
206-762-1976
EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Online Overview Course for Permit
Writers
The "NPDES Permit Writers' Course" is a five-day training course covering the key elements of NPDES
permit development. The course is taught by experienced EPA staff and contractors. These recorded
presentations are not intended to replace the "live course," but should enable permit writers who attended
the NPDES Permit Writers' Course to review the material on demand in a self-paced environment. The
Web-based presentations should also be useful for those who have not attended a live course, but wish
to become familiar with important concepts of the NPDES permit program. The first installment in this
Web-based training, "Establishing Water Quality-based Effluent Limitations in NPDES Permits" is now
available at http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/outreach/training/pwtraining.cfm This Web site provides links to
the presentations, as well as introductory text describing the training materials, and explanations of how
to navigate through the presentations. Additional training materials will be posted to the site in the coming
months. Questions or comments should be directed to David Hair in EPA's Water Permits Division, 202-
564-2287; hair.david@epa.gov
Sponsor: U.S. Institute Training Sessions, Fall 2009
Nov. 10-11
Interest-Based
Negotiation of
Environmental Issues
Washington,
D.C.
http://www.ecr.gov/AnnouncementsE
vents/Fal!2009TrainingSessions.asp
x or www.ecr.gov
Sponsor: EPA National Enforcement Training Institute (NETI)
EPA's Safety, Health and Environmental Management (SHEM) Program is now available on-line. These
courses are essential for inspectors conducting on-site (field) work. The course for new inspectors is
called "EPA SHEM Training for Field Activities." This course consists of 7 modules covering field
activities, including information on rights and responsibilities, chemical hazards, physical hazards,
biological hazards, personal protection, general safety, and field operations & support activities.
Inspectors may also need to take the OSHA "Collateral Duty" course. A "Radiation Safety" and a
"Laboratory Activities" safety course are also available. To access these and other on-line training, go to
https://www.netionline.com/course/schedule.asp#wbt. You can also get about these courses and other
EPA-sponsored classroom training by checking out EPA's National Enforcement Training Institute at
https://www.netionline.com/Default.asp
NETI is a part of the Office of Compliance, Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. If you
have questions about NETI, please contact Zena Aldridge at aldridge.zena@epa.gov or 740-773-
4039. There is no cost to attend their training. For a copy of the monthly update of all the upcoming
environmental enforcement courses, go to www.netionline.com
Sponsor: Nielson Environmental Field School
Nov9-11
Nov12-13
The Complete Ground-Water
Sampling Field Course
The Complete Surface Water &
Sediment Sampling Field
Course
Las Cruces, NM
Las Cruces, NM
www.envirofieldschool.com
www.envirofieldschool.com
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
Sustainable Infrastructure Workshops
EPA and the California Rural Water Association are offering a series of free Sustainable Infrastructure
workshops throughout California. The dates and locations can be found at:
http://www.epa.gov/region09/waterinfrastructure/docs/Sustainable-lnfrastructure-2009.pdf. For more
information, contact Charlotte Ely, 415-972-3731 orely.charlotte@epa.gov
Sponsor: Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP)
ITEP's American Indian Air Quality Training Program has released the 2009 training catalog that
includes detailed descriptions of ITEP air quality training courses, activities and services. To view the
schedule, go to: http://www4.nau.edu/itep/trainings/aiaqtp.asp or contact Lydia Scheer, at
Lydia.Scheer@nau.edu, or 928-523-6887or visit: http://www4.nau.edu/itep/trainings/aiaqtp.asp
Drinking Water Training for Tribes and Tribal Operators
The following Web site presents a list of training opportunities that may be of interest to tribes and
tribal operators: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/tribal/training.html. Click on your region to learn about
training opportunities that are available in the upcoming months. For more information, email
betanzo.elin@epa.gov
Grants and Loans
National Partnership for Environmental Technology Education
This cutting-edge program involves a multi-faceted approach to provide tribes, tribal consortia, and
insular areas with training in the proper management of EPA funds through assistance awards, and
the Office of Small Business Program's new Disadvantaged Business Enterprise rule. For more
information please contact http://epa.gov/osdbu/contact.htm or call 866-618-7870
Tribal Energy Program
Funding from the Tribal Energy Program is through a competitive process. Each funding opportunity will
include instructions on how to apply, application content, and the criteria by which applications will be
selected for funding. Only applications submitted through Grants.gov can be considered for awards. To
submit an application, there is a one-time registration process. As the registration process in Grants.gov
may take 21 days or more to complete and must take place prior to submitting an application, applicants
are encouraged to begin the process at least three weeks before the application due date. See
http://www.grants.gov/GetStarted. Questions regarding Grants.gov should be directed to the Grants.gov
Customer Support Center between 7am and 9pm EOT at 1-800-518-4726 oratsupport@grants.gov.
Rural Development's Business and Industry (B&l) Guaranteed Loan Program
Rural Development's B& I Guaranteed Loan Program has received approximately $3 billion under
Division I, Title A, of the Recovery Act to provide additional funds to lenders in connection with our
program's purpose to improve, develop, or finance business, industry, and employment and improve the
economic and environmental climate in rural communities. This will be achieved by bolstering the existing
private credit structure through the guarantee of quality loans which will provide lasting community
benefits. We have funds available under this authority through September 30, 2010. See
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/arra/recoverv-program.htm for additional details.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Drinking Water Tribal Set-Aside Solicitation
EPA Region 9 has issued the 2010 guidance and procedures for applying for assistance from the
Drinking Water Tribal Set-Aside (DWTSA) program: http://www.epa.gov/region09/funding/dwtsa.html.
This program provides funding for tribes within Region 9 (California, Nevada, and Arizona) for projects
which address the most significant public health threats for public water systems. Up to $5 million of FY
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
10 funds may be available and proposals must be received at EPA by November 2. For more
information, contact Linda Reeves at reeves.linda@epa.gov or 415-972-3445.
Guidelines for Brownfields 104(k) Competitive Grants
To view these guidelines, click or paste on your browser: http://www.epa.gov/oswer/grants-funding.htm.
The due date is October 16, 2009. For more information, call Glenn Kistner, 415-972-3004 or email
kistner.glenn@epa.gov
National Environmental Information Exchange Network (NEIEN)
EPA requests proposals for the NEIEN Grant Program. This program supports the development of
information technology and information management capabilities needed to actively participate in the
Exchange Network, a secure, internet and standards-based way to support electronic data reporting,
sharing, and integration of both regulatory and non-regulatory environmental data. $10 million is
expected to be available; up to 50 awards are anticipated. Responses are due November 20. For more
information, contact Edward Mixon at mixon.edward@epa.gov or go to:
http://epa.gov/exchangenetwork/grants/.
Brownfields Training, Research and Technical Assistance Grants
EPA is providing more than $1.5 million for ten Brownfields Training, Research and Technical Assistance
Grants. Funding will provide information, training, tools, and technical assistance to brownfields
stakeholders to support brownfields assessment, cleanup, and revitalization. Each assistance project will
receive between $100,000 and $150,000 in annual funding for up to five years. For more information,
visit the EPA Brownfields Web site at http://www.epa.gov/brownfields
EPA Region 9 Water Infrastructure Loans Available to Tribes
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
(DWSRF) loans are innovative methods of financing a range of water quality and safe drinking water
projects. Under the CWSRF & DWSRF programs, EPA Region 9 provides grants or "seed money" to
the states of Arizona, California, Hawaii and Nevada to capitalize individual state CWSRF and
DWSRF loan funds. The states, in turn, make loans to communities and individuals for high-priority
water quality and drinking water activities. Tribes are also eligible to receive CWSRF and DWSRF
loans from the states. The programs are managed by the states, and loans or other types of
assistance for water quality and drinking water projects are distributed according to each state's
program and priorities. Eligible projects under the DWSRF include installation and replacement of
failing treatment facilities, eligible storage facilities and transmission and distribution systems.
Projects to consolidate water supplies may also be eligible. CWSRF loans are used to build or
improve wastewater treatment plants, to develop or implement estuary improvement projects, and to
implement nonpoint source pollution control activities. For more state-specific information about the
CWSRF and DWSRF programs, visit the EPA, Region 9 Web site at
http://www.epa.gov/region09/water
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
USDA Rural Development:
The objectives of the Solid Waste Management Grant Program are to (a) reduce or eliminate pollution of
water resources in rural areas and (b) improve planning and management of solid waste sites in rural
areas. Rural areas are defined as any area not in a city or town with a population in excess of 10,000,
according to the latest decennial census of the United States. Tribes, academic institutions and
nonprofits are eligible. The grant focuses on landfill assistance as well as helping communities reduce the
solid waste stream. For more information go to: http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/SWMG.htm
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
Other Available Grants
Garden Award
Heinz Wholesome Memories Intergenerational Garden Award will help families grow memories together.
Recognizing the power of gardens to connect individuals of all ages socially, culturally, and emotionally,
the H. J. Heinz Company is proud to sponsor the Heinz Wholesome Memories Intergenerational Garden
Award, designed to foster family-focused garden efforts in communities across the country. The award
will provide 57 families with the tools needed to embark on a successful gardening adventure that will
foster lasting intergenerational memories while growing wholesome food. For more information, go to
Heinz Wholesome Memories Intergenerational Garden Award. The deadline is January 10, 2010.
National Indian Justice Center, Inc (NIJC)
NIJC proposes to develop a national AmeriCorps program that focuses on improving transportation
related public safety in California and Nevada Tribal Communities. The goal is to recruit transportation
professionals, including State Department of Transportation (DOT) personnel and other qualified
individuals, to become full- and part-time AmeriCorps members in tribal communities for the specific
purpose of improving tribal transportation planning and public safety programs. This brief survey will
gather data on the level of interest in the program; inquire about potential program procedures and criteria
as well as questions and concerns. This data will be used to form the implementation plan for this
proposed program. If you would like to participate, please click the following link to take this survey.
https://www.survevmonkev.com/s.aspx?sm=CqUIDcuCFpRq1 U2rR8BJIw 3d 3d
Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program
The Water and Environmental Program (WEP) provides a combination of loans, grants, and loan
guarantees for drinking water, sanitary sewer, solid waste, and storm drainage facilities in rural areas and
cities and towns of 10,000 or less. For more information, go to:
http://www.indiancountr\works.org/file/Rural%20Water%20and%20Waste%20Disposal%20Program%20
2-27-09%20FINAL.pdf or call Tedd Buelow, 202-690-1681, tedd.buelow@wdc.usda.gov or Sandi
Boughton, 202, 720-1681 m sandi.boughton@wdc.usda.gov
California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB)
The Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Cleanup and Abatement Grant Programs provide funding from
CIWMB for cleanup of illegal solid waste sites on farm or ranch property. Grants are limited to
$50,000 per cleanup or abatement project with a limit of $200,000 per year for each eligible applicant.
Only cities, counties, resource conservation districts and Native American tribes may apply. There
are no specific filing dates; grant applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed on a
quarterly basis. General information and an application package are available on Web site:
http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov or by calling 916-341-6316.
California Bay-Delta Authority Science Grants
This program seeks to invest in projects that develop new knowledge about how water use and
management activities interact with and affect key aquatic species and environmental processes
across spatial and temporal scales. The geographic areas of interest are the San Francisco Bay
Estuary and the Bay-Delta System. To access detailed information about this opportunity, visit:
http://www.solicitation.calwater.ca.gov or call the Cal Water Helpline at 877-408-9310.
California's Changing Climate
California has ambitious plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions, but the state also needs an integrated
policy to prepare for and adapt to climate change. Some institutions, such as water agencies and
electrical utilities, have already begun planning for change but other areas have yet to prepare effectively
for the challenges of a changing California. To read more about these changes, go to:
http://www.ppic.org/content/pubs/report/R_1108LBR.pdf
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
Native Non-Profit to Focus on Green Collar Careers
This Web site provides a wealth of information on green technology, training resources, and projects in
Indian Country. Additional resources include: nationwide listings of Native Chambers of Commerce,
Urban Indian Centers, and Tribal Colleges as well as green Native businesses, green grants for tribes,
green tribal news and links to other Native environmental organizations. See Native Workplace at
www.NativeWorkplace.com. For more information contact Cristala Mussato-Allen, 512-462-9056, Native
Workplace 4415 Garnett Ave. Suite #A Austin, TX 78745. info@nativeworkplace.com
Northwest Sustainable Energy for Economic Development (SEED) Releases Northwest Tribal
Energy Planning Guidebook
With funding provided by the Bullitt Foundation, Northwest SEED just released a new tool to help Native
American tribes develop a plan to achieve energy independence. Energy Planning: A Guide for
Northwest Indian Tribes contains information and resources to help select and implement projects to
conserve energy, generate clean renewable energy, and construct efficient and environmentally friendly
buildings, and other energy-related community or business projects. For more information or to obtain a
copy of the guide, contact Leslie Moynihan, 206-267-2215 or leslie@nwseed.org
Toxics Release Inventory
A peer-reviewed analysis of the Toxics Release Inventory and the impact of the EPA's Toxics Release
Inventory Burden Reduction Rule have been published and are available online at:
http://news.duke.edu/2008/06/TRIMiranda.html. Supporting materials for the analysis, including an interactive
Web application which provides access to results by EPA Region and state can be found at:
http://www.env.duke.edu/cehi/about/news/envjustice.htm. For more information, contact Martha H. Keating,
at 919-613-8736 or martha.keating@duke.edu
Improving Public Health and the Environment for Local Communities
A new EPA Web site features dozens of projects that local communities can do to help make the air
cleaner and healthier to breathe. The "Improving Air Quality in Your Community" Web site features
activities for reducing both indoor and outdoor pollution, including diesel engine retrofit programs,
improving air quality in local schools, and pollution prevention options for small businesses. These
projects have a successful track record-they were previously put into action by state and local
governments across the country. This site includes information about the costs to establish and maintain
each project, and how local communities can apply for EPA grants to kick-start their activities. Contact:
Cathy Milbourn, 202-564-4355 / milbourn.cathy@epa.gov or go to: http://www.epa.gov/air/community/
Chemical Spills and Methamphetamine labs
EPA is the Chair for the National Response Center (NRC)-"the sole national point of contact for reporting
oil, chemical, radiological, biological, etiological discharges into the environment anywhere in the United
States and its territories." To report a spill, contact 1-800-424-8802 or 1-202-267-2675. NRC is open a
24-hour, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. For more information go to
http://www.nrc.uscg.mil/index.html
Tribal Compliance Assistance Center - Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assistance
EPA's web-based Tribal Compliance Assistance Center is now available to provide comprehensive
compliance assistance and pollution prevention information for regulated activities in Indian Country. For
more information, go to the following site: http://www.epa.gov/tribalcompliance. This center is designed
to help tribal environmental professionals and facility owners and operators comply with environmental
regulations and get information on topics including waste management, air and water resources, drinking
water, and public safety. From the Tribal Center, viewers can report a complaint to EPA, find out the
compliance status of facilities in Indian Country, learn how to apply for federal grants, and locate EPA
personnel who can answer your environmental compliance questions. If access to the Internet is limited,
much of the Tribal Center's information is found in the Profile of Tribal Government Operations which can
be ordered by calling 1-800-490-9198. All of EPA's compliance assistance centers are found at
http://www.assistancecenters.net. If you have any questions about the Tribal Center or the Profile of
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
Tribal Government Operations, contact Jonathan Binder at 202-564-2516, binder.jonathan@epa.gov, or
Catherine Tunis at (202) 564-0476, tunis.catherine@epa.gov or by mail: EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania
Avenue, N.W., Mail Code 2224A, Washington DC 20460.
Tribal Compliance Assistance Notebook
EPA's Tribal Schools Compliance Assistance Notebook provides quick access to many programs and
resources available to help Tribal school districts and Tribal schools prevent and resolve environmental
issues in schools. The Notebook presents information on complying with Federal laws and regulations
and maintaining school facilities that are safe and healthy for students and staff. Topics include asbestos,
chemical use and management, drinking water, pesticides, PCBs, lead-based paint, and more. The
Notebook is available at http://yosemite.epa.gov/r10/tribal.nsf/programs/tribal+schools. The Tribal
Schools Compliance Assistance Notebook is part of EPA's National Tribal Compliance Assurance Priority
(http://www.epa.gov/compliance/data/planning/priorities/tribal.html).
Professional Resources for Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program Staff
California Hazardous Materials Information Exchange list serve is used mainly by HHW professionals in
California, but may be useful for those working outside of California as well. The list serve is also
searchable by topic and date: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hhwie/
Employment Opportunities
Region 9, U.S. EPA Environmental Review Office (ERO) in the Communities and Ecosystems
Division (CED)
ERO office, has openings for Life Scientists, Physical Scientists, and Environmental Protection
Specialists. The purpose of our comments is to encourage environmentally sound decision-making, as
well as public disclosure of the environmental impacts of federal projects, and to ensure that federal
agencies are aware of environmental regulatory requirements applicable to their projects. In particular,
we are seeking candidates with education and/or experience relevant to forestry, water and wetlands
protection, mining, transportation, energy, or military projects. The work of a NEPA/309 Reviewer
requires critical/analytical thinking and strong organizational, time-management, and interpersonal skills.
Candidates must also possess excellent written and oral communication skills. The ideal candidate will
have the ability to identify potential pitfalls, gaps, and inconsistencies in large documents or plans, as well
as to see and persuasively communicate possibilities and opportunities for incorporating greater
environmental protection and/or sustainability into federal projects. The available positions will be posted
on USAJOBS.gov in October/November 2009. Please apply through USAJOBS.gov when the positions
are posted and also submit your resume and a letter of interest to Kathleen Goforth (ERO Manager) at
goforth.kathleen@epa.gov.
Information Management Specialist
The National Congress of American Indians has an opening fora full-time Information Management
Specialist in Washington, D.C. Incumbent will work with the Communication Team to coordinate
communication with external web site providers; develop and implement, with team input, the processes,
policies and procedures for information management and support NCAI events in the area of information
management and technology. This is a salaried position that offers competitive salary and benefits
(including health benefits, 401 (k) plan, vacation time, etc.). Salary to be determined based on experience.
For more information on how to apply, go to http://www.ncai.org/
Environmental Positions
The Air Quality Program (AQP) with the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency is aggressively
seeking qualified applicants for two senior environmental specialists, one environmental engineer and
one associate environmental engineer. AQP is a pollution monitoring and regulatory authority with
Treatment as State status, and is the first Indian Tribe to attain delegated authority to administer the
Clean Air Act (CAA), Part 71 Operating Permit Program (Title V- Permits). These positions will be
opened until filled. To complete an application, go to www.nndpm.navajo.org or mail completed
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
application to the Navajo Nation Department of Personnel Management, P. O. Box 7080, Window Rock,
AZ 86515. For more information, contact Charlene Nelson at 928-729-4247 or by email at
charlenenelson@navajo.org.
Tribal outreach, review and comment
Targeted Brownfields Assessments (TBA)
A TBA is an environmental investigation designed to document environmental conditions at a property
under consideration for redevelopment. EPA can provide communities and nonprofit organizations with
environmental assessment services at brownfield properties with redevelopment potential. TBAs are
noncompetitive and are available all year. Brochure (PDF) 5/2007 (3-page brochure, 725 K, About PDF)
Online Application (PDF tillable form)
Public Service Announcement Video
As part of Children's Health month, the Office of Public Affairs recently launched the joint EPA/ATSDR
Public Service Announcement video "Don't Mess with Mercury" in an effort to protect children from the
dangers of mercury. Please copy and paste into your browser and share this 30-second video with
friends, family, schools, parenting groups, etc., in an effort to raise awareness that this resource is
available to teach children to stay away from mercury: http://www.dontmesswithmercury.org/
Smart Growth Solutions
EPA and other agencies have released a first-of-its-kind smart growth guide that will help coastal and
waterfront communities tackle threats from sea level rise, stronger hurricanes, flooding and other
challenges. The new interagency guide, aimed at planners, local government officials, developers, non-
profit groups, and coastal and waterfront residents, includes a description of tools and techniques for
applying smart growth guidelines, with case studies illustrating the guidelines in action. The smart growth
program nationally covers a range of development and conservation strategies that help protect our
natural environment and make our communities more attractive, economically stronger, and more socially
diverse. For more information on the guide: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/sg-coastal.html
A Guide to Build Cultural Awareness of the American Indian and Alaska Native Communities
The purpose of this guide is to provide basic information for federal disaster responders and other service
providers who may be deployed or otherwise assigned to provide or coordinate services in American
Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. This free publication may be downloaded or ordered from the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) at www.SAMHSA.gov/shin: or
call SAMHSA's Health Information Network at 877-726-4727and ask for DHHS publication # (SMA) 08-
4354.
Plychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Most PCB uses were banned by Congress in 1976. They are toxic chemicals that build up in the body
and are potentially harmful if there is exposure to high levels over long periods of time. Exposure to
PCBs in caulk may occur as a result of direct contact to the caulk, dust, soil and surrounding surfaces and
potential exposure to PCBs released into the air. It is important to note that the fact that PCBs may be
found in caulk or in the air does not necessarily mean there are immediate or long term health risks. The
greatest risks from PCBs involve sustained long term exposure to high levels of PCBs. Practical steps to
address PCBs in caulk include improved ventilation and hygiene. Building owners should consider testing
to determine if PCB levels in the air exceed EPA's suggested public health levels. If testing reveals PCBs
in the air above these levels, buildings, including schools, should be especially vigilant in implementing
and monitoring improved ventilation and hygienic practices to minimize exposures. EPA has set up a
hotline and a website to answer questions about this issue - concerned parties can call (888) 835-5372
or visit http://www.epa.gov/pcbsincaulk/ for additional information.
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
The National Partnership for Environmental Technology Education (PETE)
PETE has entered into a multi-year contract with EPA to develop a nationwide tribal training program for
the Office of Grants and Debarment (OGD) and the Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). This
cutting-edge program will involve a multi-faceted approach to provide tribes, tribal consortia and insular
areas with training in the proper management of EPA funds through assistance awards, and OSBP's new
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Rule (DBE) rule. For more information, please go to the tribal
training project web site: http://www.petetribal.org
National Congress for American Indians (NCAI) Opportunities
NCAI has posted a list of opportunities for Tribes resulting from the Recovery Act. There are also links to
related news updates and webinars. See: http://www.indiancountryworks.org/.
National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC)
NPIC offers a toll-free number staffed by knowledgeable specialists seven days/week from 6:30 am to
4:30 pm PST. NPIC has real-time access to current, in depth information for a national audience. NPIC
addresses questions in multiple languages such as Navajo, Cherokee, Ojibway and many more. For any
question regarding pesticides, please call toll free 800-858-7378 or visit www.npic.orst.edu.
Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council (ITRC)
ITRC is a state-led coalition working with industry and stakeholders to achieve regulatory acceptance of
environmental technologies. It consists of 50 states, the District of Columbia, multiple federal partners,
industry participants, and other stakeholders cooperating to break down barriers and reduce compliance
costs, to make it easier to use new technologies, and help states maximize resources. It is currently
seeking tribal representation. For more information, call Eugenia McNaughton, 415-972-3411 or Joe
Eidelberg at 415-972-3809or go to http://www.itrcweb.org/membership.asp
Sources of Exposure to Lead in Children and Eliminating Childhood Lead Poisoning in America
The Federal Government banned the use of lead-based paint in housing in 1978. The total number of
children who are lead poisoned each year has significantly declined since then. National policies over
recent decades (banning use of leaded gasoline and lead-based paint in housing and consumer
products) greatly reduced exposure to lead and thus lead poisoning in children in the US. A research
paper in the journal "Environmental Health Perspectives" evaluated numerous sources which can
contribute to lead exposure and childhood lead poisoning: http://www.epa.gov/region09/lead/EHP-
lead.pdf - Achieving the national strategic goal of substantially eliminating childhood lead poisoning as a
major health threat in the US by 2010 requires maintenance of current efforts (especially programs
addressing lead-based paint) and developing intervention strategies/tools to prevent exposure before
children are lead poisoned. For more information: Dave Tomsovic, EPA Region IX Toxics Office, 415-
972-3858.
Rapid Deployment Energy Efficiency (RDEE) Toolkit Help Line
EPA designed the RDEE Toolkit Help Line to assist state and local governments in deploying ARRA
energy efficiency funding in a successful, sustainable manner by having a go-to resource for RDEE
questions. Call 866-602-7333 or email RDEE@icfi.com to receive a response to your inquiry within one
business day. The RDEE Toolkit was developed through a joint effort of EPA and the U.S. Department of
Energy (DOE), with technical input from the Leadership Group of the National Action Plan on Energy
Efficiency. For more information about the Toolkit and to access the Planning Guide, visit:
www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/ee_toolkit.html. All questions related to funding provided by
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act should be directed to DOE: www.eere.energy.gov/recovery
or 1-877-EERE-INF (1-877-337-3463).
Ensuring health and safety from potential asbestos hazards in schools (grades K-12).
Asbestos, a naturally-occurring mineral, is used in building materials due to its heat- and fire-resistant
properties. For information on the asbestos-in-schools program go to: http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/ or
contact: Ron Tsuchiya, EPA Region IX Toxics Office, 415-947-4168, oremailtsuchiya.ron@epa.gov
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009
-------
Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) Public Data
EPA released the 2007 data on toxic chemicals released to air, water, and land. The Emergency
Planning and Community Right to Know Act requires that certain facilities report the amounts of toxic
chemicals disposed of or otherwise released on-site to air, water, land, and underground injection, and
the amounts of chemicals transferred off-site for disposal annually to EPA. In addition to the data, EPA
Region 9 provides analyses for each Region 9 state, US Pacific Islands, and the border region, which
ranks facilities and chemicals in those areas. The data helps increase access to information for tribes
and the public on chemicals released in their communities. The Region 9 TRI data and press releases are
at http://www.epa.gov/region09/toxic/tri/ and the national web site is at http://www.epa.gov/tri or contact:
Mariela Lopez, EPA Region 9 Toxics Office, 415-972-3771 or lopez.mariela@epa.gov.
Tribal Pesticide Issues
Do you have questions about pesticides that are being used on your reservation for agriculture or to
control pests in and around homes? Are pesticides being sold in your community? Do you think that
water or other resources are being impacted by pesticide use? Are there other pesticide issues on your
reservation that concern you? If you have these or other questions about pesticides, contact Pam
Cooper, Manager, Region 9 Pesticides Office at 415-947-4217 or e-mail cooper.pam@epa.gov .
The Sierra Nevada Adaptive Management Project (SNAMP)
SNAMP is an effort to gather independent scientific data on the effects of forest thinning for fire protection
as done by the US Forest Service. There are two study sites; a southern one near Oakhurst off Hwy 41,
and a northern one near Tahoe. The study focuses specifically on the ongoing conflicts over forest fuels
management in the Sierra Nevada National Forests and the controversial Record of Decision 2004 (ROD)
that establishes the current legal boundaries for management prescriptions in the Sierra Nevada's.
Scientists from the University of California will take baseline measurements before thinning treatments
and after to quantify any adverse effects. The data will be used to advise and hopefully improve the
process in the future. There will be annual meetings and regular Integration Team meetings and the
public will be encouraged to attend. A mailing list and a Web site at http://snamp.cnr.berkely.edu will
have all of SNAMPs activities. For more information, contact Anne Lombardo at 209-966-2417or email
amlombardo@ucdavis.edu.
Procedures for Accessing EPA Resources for Emergency Responses to Hazards Materials
Incidents on Tribal or Federal Lands in AZ
Call 9-1-1 first. Then notify the National Response Center at 1 800-424-8802. A tribe can also notify
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) at 602-390-7894 or 602-771-2330. If it is a
transportation-related spill, call 602-223-2212 at the Arizona Department of Public Safety. In addition,
local jurisdictions need to be notified of the incident. If ADEQ is unable to respond to a hazardous
materials incident on tribal and federal lands, contact the National Response Center at 800-424-8802,
and ask for the EPA Region 9 Duty Officer. EPA has On-Scene Coordinators placed in San Francisco,
and Los Angeles, CA, Carson City, NV and Phoenix, AZ who can provide timely response to a hazardous
materials incident.
Web sites for tribal programs and federal programs
To find case studies and information on Energy Efficiency, Green Site Cleanups, Renewable Energy,
Smart Growth, Transportation, Sustainable Water Infrastructure and Waste Management go to:
http://www.epa.gov/region09/climatechange/tribes.html
Web sites for EPA's compliance assistance newsletter:
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/index.html
Automotive Recycling:
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/cacompassvol4no1.pdf
Strategic Approach-Best Practices:
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/cacompassvol3no1.pdf
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009 10
-------
Educational Facilities:
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/cacompassvol2no2.pdf
Healthcare: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/cacompass2-2006.pdf
Storm Water: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/cacompassvol1 no1 .pdf
WTR7 presented the Clean Water Act compliance program to tribes on August 20th. The presentations
are available online at this address: http://www.epa.gov/region09/water/tribal-CWA-workshop/
More EPA Websites:
http://www.epa.gov/indian/new.htm
http://www.epa.gov/smokefree
http://www.epa.gov/radon/index.html
http://www.epa.gov/water/tribaltraining/2009/tevent0919.html.
http://www.epa.gov/region09/waste/ust/leaking-tanks-indian/
http://www.epa.gov/water/tribaltraining/training.html
http://www.epa.gov/tribalportal/
http://www.epa.gov/oswer/tribal .
http://www.epa.gov/region09/funding/index.html
http://www.epa.gov/region09/indian/res.html
http://www.epa.gov/region9/indian/pdf/gap-water-activities-factsheet.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/newsletters/assistance/index.html
http://www.epa.govhttp://www. epa.gov/water/tribaltraining/resources/general. htm I)
http://www.epa.gov/water/tribaltraining/resources/data.html)
http://www.epa.gov/water/tribaltraining/index.htmlv/region09/funding/pdfs/tribal-gap/GAP-
http://iaspub.epa.gov/GAP_Online/
National Indian Justice Center
http://www.nijc.org/pdfs/AIR.PDF
http://www.nijc.org/pdfs/SOLIDWAS.PDF
http://www.nijc.org/pdfs/WATER.PDF
http://www.nijc.org/pdfs/DRWATER.PDF
Other Web Sites of Interest
http://www.communityhealthstudies.com
http://www.wihresourcegroup.com/
http://www.doi.gov/bia
http://www.narf.org/nill/triballaw/index.htm
http://www.stopwaste.org/home/index.asp
http://www.conservatree.com/index.shtml
http://soils.usda.gov/survey
http://www.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/projects.cfm
www.energysavers.gov
http://www.gaia-gis.it/spatialite/ Spatialite is a free open source spatial database that has a simple
CIS/Map Viewer, as well as a GUI (graphical user interface) for interacting with the database tables itself.
http://earth911 .com/hazardous/rechargeable-batteries/
This monthly newsletter contains information on meetings, conferences, trainings, available grants, employment opportunities
and other items of interest. Comments and feedback are appreciated. Contact Maria Castain 415-972-3264; email
castain.maria@epa.gov or go to: http://www.epa.aov/region09/indian/newslet.html. Also, if you want to be removed from this
mailing list, contact Maria.
Tribal Program Newsletter, November 2009 11
------- |