vv EPA Region 7 United States Environmental Protection Agency 4 | i Nebraska Lincoln ® I Topeka m Des Moines Iowa r-" w Jefferson City ' m 7 Kansas Missouri J / L7 Compendium of State Assistance for Small Communities in EPA Region 7 February 2008 ------- This Page left intentionally blank ------- TABLE OF CONTENTS Title Page Introduction 1 Kansas: Financial Assistance for Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) 3 Financial Assistance for Recycling, Composting, 4 Source Reduction and Public Education Source Water Protection Program (SWPP) 5 Local Environmental Protection Program (LEPP) 6 Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS) 7 City Dump Grant Program 8 Brownfields Targeted Assessment Program 9 Public Entity EMS Resource (PEER) Center 10 Financial Assistance for Waste Tire Recycling 11 Illegal Dump Clean-Up Program 12 Iowa: Business and Regulatory Assistance Network 13 Water Quality Assistance Program 14 Brownfields Redevelopment 15 Wastewater State Revolving Fund Loan Program 16 Geology and Hydrology 17 Energy Efficiency Technologies 18 ------- Missouri: Land and Water Conservation Fund 19 Illegal Disposal of Solid Waste 20 Asbestos Removal 21 Illegal Dumping Surveillance Camera Project 22 Clean Water & Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program 23 Rural Sewer Grant Program 24 State Forty-Percent Construction Grant Program 25 Small Borrower Program 26 Waste Reduction and Recycling 27 Engineering Contract Services 28 Environmental Emergency Response 29 Clandestine Drug Lab Collection Station Program 30 Environmental Assistance Visits (EAVs) 31 Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) 33 Geographic Reference System (GRS) 34 Nebraska: Nebraska Environmental Partnerships (NEP) 35 Partnership for Rural Nebraska (PRN) 37 Water Wastewater Advisory Committee (WWAC) 38 State Revolving Fund (SRF) 39 ------- Introduction EPA Region 7 and the state environmental departments in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska have struggled with the impact that various environmental issues have on small, rural communities. One size often does not fit all in environmental regulation. The challenge of addressing these issues in small communities has been a standing topic at the state environmental directors meetings over the past several years. Through these discussions, Region 7 states have shared and learned about ways to address small community issues. Each state operates a variety of programs designed to help small communities deal with federal and state environmental requirements. This guide was created by the state environmental departments and EPA Region 7 to showcase some of these programs. The intent is to provide a tool to help small communities identify available assistance in their state, and highlight programs and activities that might be of interest to other states. Definition of Small Community: For purposes of this guide, a small community is defined as a municipality, village, or township with a population base of less than 5,000. It should be noted, however, that a substantial percentage of these small communities in Region 7 actually have populations of less than 500. For example, more than 300 of Nebraska's 531 incorporated municipalities have populations of less than 500. The following chart shows state populations and a breakdown of incorporated places in each of the four states. Please note that an Incorporated Place is defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as a type of governmental unit incorporated under state law as a city, town, borough, or village and having legally prescribed limits, powers, and functions. State Populations and Number of Incorporated Places IOWA KANSAS MISSOURI NEBRASKA Total State Population 2,972,566 2,775,817 5,837,639 1,763,765 Total Incorporated Places: 947 627 951 531 Population greater than 5,001 75 57 123 33 Population 1,001 - 5,000 203 142 218 76 Population 501 - 1,000 185 89 144 90 Population 500 or less 484 339 466 332 Note: State population information provided above is based on July 1, 2006 estimated data. The data can be found using the Population Estimates Program on the U.S. Census Bureau's Web site. The 2006 population estimates start with a base population for 2000 and calculate population estimates using a variety of administrative records data to measure the population change including data on births, deaths, migration, and housing units Unique Challenges that Small Communities Face: Small communities have the same environmental responsibilities as larger municipalities, yet they have far fewer technical, financial, and managerial resources to address complex federal and state environmental requirements. Larger municipalities generally have full-time staff dedicated to planning for and complying with environmental regulations. These individuals are familiar with the procedures and processes required to apply for permits and grant assistance funds. They also have larger budgets and a bigger population base from which to draw additional resources. By contrast, small communities have limited technical staff available and may not be aware of all of the 1 ------- options available to the community. In addition, there are fewer community financial resources from which to draw, making it more difficult to comply with federal and state environmental regulations. An example of this challenge is the implementation of drinking water standards. The standards are the same for large and small communities. However, the cost to implement these standards is disproportionately higher for small communities due to smaller budgets and fewer available technical resources. As a result, the cost per capita for small communities is higher than in larger cities. Distribution systems and drinking water sources for small communities often reflect additional vulnerabilities not typically found in larger systems. For example, longer distribution lines between remote rural homes are more vulnerable to potential contamination sources. Other potential problems in small communities include, but are not limited to: ~~~ Wastewater treatment and disposal needs ~~~ Solid waste landfills (upgrades & closings and long distances to permitted facilities) ~> Air quality issues (open burning, etc.) ~~~ Contaminated site cleanups Leaking underground storage tanks ~~~ Abandoned buildings/houses and accumulation of household trash Layout of the Guide: This guide is a compilation of some of the programs/activities underway in 2008 in all four Region 7 states. Each state provided a description for each highlighted activity. For consistency, these descriptions are divided into five parts: 1. Hi story/Purpose - describes the program's intent and how it developed 2. Implementation - how the program works 3. Stakeholders - what other entities are involved and/or who can apply for assistance 4. Achievements to Date - highlights some of the program's achievements to show the kind of benefit this program can have for small communities 5. State Contacts - provided for additional information, since these descriptions are fairly brief 2 ------- Kansas - Financial Assistance for Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) History/Purpose Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) offers assistance to local units of government, municipalities, counties and regional governmental entities to manage household hazardous waste (HHW). HHW consists of pesticides, paints and varnishes; paint thinners and other solvents; motor oil, antifreeze and other automobile fluids; household cleaners, polishes and waxes; wood preservatives, photo and hobby chemicals; swimming pool chemicals and batteries and other miscellaneous hazardous materials. Established in 1989, the Kansas HHW program includes regulatory, compliance, and enforcement efforts and provides technical and financial assistance in what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has characterized as a model state program. Implementation Over the years, a network of 37 permanent facilities operated by local units of government and numerous associated satellite facilities has developed in Kansas. These programs provide over 90 percent of the Kansas population with access to proper HHW reuse, recycling, diversion from other means of disposal. Only local units of government are eligible for the grants. The program is funded primarily from the $1.00 per ton fee assessed on most solid waste landfilled in Kansas. In addition, 25 percent of fees collected from facilities that burn hazardous waste is used to support the HHW program. Grant applications must be submitted using forms provided online and grant guides which are updated annually. Grant application deadlines vary from year to year, so interested parties are encouraged to monitor the Bureau of Waste Management Web page and other announcements. Stakeholders All levels of local units of government and regional groups involving the public sector are eligible for this grant program that serves all households in Kansas. Examples of Achievements to Date > 37 facilities provide HHW access to 81 of the 105 Kansas counties. > Over the past decade (state fiscal years 1995-2007), $2,498,875 has been awarded in grants to establish HHW facilities. > In recent years, about 50,000 people drop off nearly 5,000,000 HHW each year. > The average participant drops off 88 pounds of HHW and the total cost per participant was $37.32 in state fiscal year 2006. State Contact for Additional Information Maria Morey or Jim Rudeen, (785) 296-1600, Kansas Department Health and Environment, Bureau of Waste Management, http://www.kdheks.gov/waste/ 3 ------- Kansas - Financial Assistance for Recycling, Composting, Source Reduction and Public Education History/Purpose The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) offers technical and financial assistance for recycling, composting, and waste reduction activities. Established in 1996, the Competitive Plan Implementation (CPI) grant program offers recurring opportunity to seek funding for public and private waste reduction projects. The focus of this grant program is to reduce the amount of waste going to Kansas municipal solid waste landfills. Implementation Candidates for grants are encouraged to attend grant workshops and submit applications by the deadlines established in grant guidelines. Bureau of Waste Management staff summarize the applications in a standard format for the Governor's Solid Waste Grants Advisory Committee that reviews, scores, and makes award recommendations to the Secretary of KDHE and the Governor. Each grant round, millions in requests are received but much less money is available; therefore, each round is very competitive. To be eligible, each proposed project must be approved by the county solid waste management planning committee or the respective County Commission. Funding for this program comes from the $1.00 per ton fee assessed on most solid waste disposed in Kansas landfills. Each grant round is announced through mailings, on the KDHE Bureau of Waste Management Web site, and through mass media. The funding available for each grant round varies from about $1.0 to $1.5 million. Stakeholders All units of government, schools, regional groups, nonprofit organizations, and private companies are eligible to receive these grants. Examples of Achievements to Date Over $16 million has been awarded through 374 grant contracts to over 200 cities, counties, and other public and private sector programs serving the State of Kansas over the past ten years. Communities and businesses have added jobs, reduced wastes, and improved their programs through this program. State Contact for Additional Information Kris Hicks or Rodney Ferguson, (785) 296-1600, Kansas Department Health and Environment, Bureau of Waste Management, http://www.kdheks.gov/waste/ 4 ------- Kansas - Source Water Protection Program (SWPP) History/Purpose Based on the principle that prevention is often cheaper than the costs incurred in treating contaminated water, the Kansas Source Water Protection (SWP) Program helps communities throughout the State of Kansas develop and implement plans to protect their source of drinking water. Source Water Assessments (SWA) completed in 2004 are the first step in completing a comprehensive plan for protecting the public water supply system. Public water supply systems and their surrounding communities use the SWA and the accompanying Susceptibility Analysis Scores to determine the contaminants and activities that pose the greatest threats to their water supply. A team process is utilized to engage a cross section of the community in all steps of the process from planning to implementation. Implementation An implementation plan for all water quality protection measures identified during the process is included in the SWP document. Water quality protection measures or established Best Management Practices are assigned to address potential sources of contamination. Projects identified by the SWP Plan that address nonpoint sources of contamination are eligible for Clean Water Act Section 319 grant funding. Communities are encouraged to research and identify additional sources of funding as applicable. Stakeholders Stakeholders for the planning and implementation process represent the diverse interests of the community. This group may include representatives from local government, business owners, farmers, educators, homeowners, land developers, local civic and environmental organizations, or college students. Examples of Achievements to Date Source Water Protection Plans in the planning stages include: > Marais des Cygnes/Marmaton/Little Osage River Watersheds, a cooperative Missouri- Kansas planning committee developing a watershed plan for the Missouri portion of the Marias des Cygnes River, Marmaton, and Little Osage River watersheds located within Bates, Cass, and Vernon Counties. Wellhead Protections Plans have been approved and implemented in the Kansas portion of the watershed since 1995. > Barber County Rural Water District #3 > The City of Conway Springs Public Water Supply System State Contact for Additional Information Additional information for the watershed planning process may be obtained by contacting Sheryl Ervin by phone at (785) 296-8038, or e-mail at servin@kdhe.state.ks.us or online at www.kdhe.state.ks.us/nps/. 5 ------- Kansas - Local Environmental Protection Program (LEPP) History/Purpose In 1989, Kansas lawmakers authorized the "environmental protection grant program," providing state funding to local health departments to develop and implement environmental protection plans. These plans were to "include, but not limited to, the sanitary code, subdivision water and wastewater plan, solid waste management plan, hazardous waste management plan, public water supply protection plan, and nonpoint source pollution control plan." The Kansas Water Plan Fund finances local Environmental Protection Grants. Since the inception of the statewide LEPP in 1994, an average of $1.5 million per year has been provided to Kansas counties. Plans are required to identify activities and tasks that the LEP Program will execute to contribute towards attainment of Kansas Water Plan Objectives. Implementation The Kansas Department Health & Environment (KDHE) Bureau of Water, Watershed Management Section, administers the LEPP. In federal fiscal year 2005, $1.6 million was awarded to Kansas counties for implementation of the statewide Local Environmental Protection Program. Currently, 101 of Kansas' 105 counties have adopted a sanitary code, prepared an LEPP plan, and received state fiscal year 2006 state LEPP funds. Forty-two counties implement an individual LEPP, while 59 counties have pooled their funds to create Local Environmental Protection Groups. Annual LEPP plans are proposed, approved, and managed on the web-based Kansas Clean Waters (KCW) system, which can be accessed at http://kcw.kdhe.state.ks.us. LEPP quarterly affidavits and performance reports are also managed in the KCW system. County sanitary codes typically authorize enforcement of the code in unincorporated areas only, which means that environmental protection issues in incorporated communities are addressed in various ways: 1. Community oversight with no assistance, or limited assistance, from the county LEPP. 2. Adoption of all or part of the sanitary code by the community. Options: a. Community oversight with no assistance, or limited assistance, from the county LEPP. b. Interlocal agreement with the county LEPP to administer the sanitary code within the boundaries of the incorporated community. Environmental protection issues in small unincorporated communities are addressed by the county LEPP. Stakeholders The principal stakeholders in the program are KDHE, the Kansas Water Office, counties (commissions, health departments, sanitarians), cities, and unincorporated communities. Examples of Achievements to Date Projects in which LEPPs have assisted small communities: 1. The Northwest LEP group has offered assistance with on-site wastewater systems and source water protection to all incorporated communities within its service area. 2. The Saline County LEPP received an LEPP target grant to conduct an inventory of private water wells and on-site wastewater systems at an unincorporated community (80-lot mobile home park and 56-lot single-family subdivision) located on a federal reservoir that provides drinking water for the largest water district in Kansas. 3. LEPP staff throughout the state conducted source water assessments for non-community public water suppliers (i.e., mobile home parks, campgrounds, unincorporated subdivisions, etc.). 4. Several LEPP staff are participating in Watershed Restoration & Protection Strategies (WRAPS) and source water protection projects throughout the state. State Contact for Additional Information For more information, please contact David Gurss at 785-296-4195 or e-mail at dgurss@,kdhe.state.ks.us. Additional information is posted online at http://www.kdheks.gov/nps/lepp/. 6 ------- Kansas - Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS) History/Purpose A Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy is a planning and management framework intended to engage stakeholders in a process to: > identify watershed restoration and protection needs > establish management goals > create a cost-effective action plan to achieve goals > implement the action plan In addition to the WRAPS framework, a report is generated that records the stakeholders' decisions concerning goals, the plan to achieve those goals, and the resources required to execute the plan. WRAPS efforts are needed to address a variety of water resource concerns facing Kansas communities. These concerns often include water quality, public water supply protection, flooding, and habitat protection and/or restoration. Implementation A WRAPS Working Group has been formed to institutionalize WRAPS in Kansas. The WRAPS Working Group is comprised of the Kansas Natural Resources Sub-Cabinet and other state and federal agency members. On a yearly basis, the WRAPS Working Group will solicit WRAPS related projects for potential funding. WRAPS projects are divided into four basic categories (development, assessment, planning, and implementation). In federal fiscal year 2005, $2 million was available to fund new or continuing WRAPS projects. All WRAPS projects are proposed, approved, and managed on the web-based Kansas Clean Waters System, which can be accessed at http://kcw.kdhe.state.ks.us. Stakeholders Any public or private organization that applies for membership and accepts the Statement of Principles and Partnership Agreement is eligible to join the Kansas Watershed Partnership. The Kansas Watershed Partnership's purpose is to assure that all Kansas water resource stakeholders are implementing the WRAPS by providing advice to the WRAPS Working Group and promoting stakeholder participation in local WRAPS projects. Examples of Achievements to Date Local WRAPS projects underway include: Melvern Reservoir Water Quality Protection Implementation Project Banner Creek Reservoir WRAPS Development Project Upper Wakarusa River WRAPS Implementation Project State Contact for Additional Information For more information about WRAPS, please contact Don Snethen, WRAPS Working Group Chairman, at 785-296-4195, or e-mail at dsnethen@kdhe.state.ks.us. Additional information is posted online at www.kdhe.state.ks.us/nps. 7 ------- Kansas - City Dump Grant Program History/Purpose The Kansas Department of Health and Environment's (KDHE) Bureau of Environmental Remediation (BER) administers the City Dump Grant Program through its Assessment and Restoration Section (ARS). The City Dump Grant Program provides funds to cities or counties for the repair of old, unused municipal dump sites (the old city dumps). These sites primarily operated between the 1930s and 1970s, before communities had sanitary landfills or implementation of solid waste regulations. After passage of the solid waste regulations, these dumpsites were no longer used and most were abandoned. Closures of some of the old city dumps were improper and lack of long-term care has compromised the soil covers, allowing waste to be exposed. After the floods of 1993, the ARS began to inspect these old dump sites to determine the condition and whether repairs would be necessary. The ARS compiled a list of approximately 850 dumpsites throughout the state of Kansas. Since that time, efforts have been made to repair as many of these dump sites as possible with funding available through Solid Waste Tipping Fees. These fees are levied on all solid wastes that are disposed of in landfills on a per-ton basis. ARS uses these funds to address the necessary repairs at compromised dump sites. Implementation Sites are prioritized for risk to human health and the environment based on the type of wastes involved, amount of waste at a site, and proximity to receptors. Once the site reaches the top of the prioritization list, KDHE contacts the local city or county to determine if they have the funds to repair the site. If local funds are not available, KDHE provides 100 percent of the funding to repair the dump site. The city or county prepares a work plan with a not-to-exceed cost estimate. KDHE reviews the work plan and cost estimate. When approved by KDHE, a contract is written between KDHE and the city or county. KDHE encourages the city or county to use their own personnel for the projects. However, due to staff limitations, some sites require hiring of engineers or contractors to complete the work. Stakeholders The KDHE Landfill Remediation Program in BER administers the program by providing technical guidance, funding, and oversight for city dump repair projects. Kansas' cities and counties receive the grant funding to implement the individual projects. Examples of Achievements to Date The first dump repair projects were initiated in 1995. Forty-six city dumps have been repaired as of July 1, 2005, at a total cost of approximately $3 million. The City Dump Grant Program typically provides approximately $250,000 to $300,000 per year for city dump repair projects. State Contact for Additional Information KDHE Landfill Remediation Program - Bob Jurgens, Unit Manager Curtis State Office Building, 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 410, Topeka, KS 66612-1367 Phone: 785-291-3250; fax: 785-296-4823 E-mail: biurgens@kdhe.state.ks.us Web site: www.kdhe.state.ks.us/ars 8 ------- Kansas - Brownfields Targeted Assessment Program History/Purpose Brownfields are defined as real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. The goal of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's (KDHE's) Brownfields Program is to ensure that contaminated properties in Kansas communities are appropriately assessed, cleaned up and reused, allowing for benefits to the environment, community and industry. Under a Cooperative Agreement with EPA, KDHE has been performing Brownfields Targeted Assessments (BTAs) for communities at properties that are proposed for redevelopment since 1998. BTAs are Phase I and/or Phase II environmental site assessments that are conducted to determine if historical property use has had any environmental impacts on the property. This effort has allowed KDHE to coordinate cooperative efforts with local governments to assess and address brownfields sites to facilitate their sustainable reuse. Implementation When a community expresses an interest in the BTA program, KDHE provides a BTA application package for the appropriate contact to fill out. Once KDHE approves the application, KDHE assigns a contractor to initiate the assessment. After the assessment has been completed, KDHE provides both the assessment and a written recommendation on the property to the BTA applicant. Each year, KDHE's Brownfields Program conducts a series of workshops to engage local communities in brownfields redevelopment. The workshops are intended to not only educate members of the public on KDHE's Brownfields Program, but to get these entities to explore brownfields possibilities in their communities. Stakeholders KDHE, EPA, and any municipalities or nonprofit agencies with an interest in brownfields redevelopment. Examples of Achievements to Date To date, more than 100 Phase I and/or Phase II assessments have been completed for more than 46 communities. Many of these assessments determined that no environmental concerns were present at the properties. State Contact for Additional Information Brownfields Program Coordinator: Bridget Wilson KDHE/BER 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 410 Topeka, KS 66611 (785) 291-3246 bwilson@,kdhe. state, ks. us Program Web Sites: www.kdhe.state.ks.us/brownfields/index.html www, redevelopks .org 9 ------- Kansas - Public Entity EMS Resource (PEER) Center History/Purpose Local governments facing increasingly limited financial and human resources are recognizing the promotion of environmental management system (EMS) concepts as a way to further their goals of environmental protection. Numerous state and federal programs support implementation of EMSs in the regulated community. The Public Entity Environmental Management System Resource (PEER) Center is a collaboration between the Office of Water at U.S. EPA and the Global Environment and Technology Foundation (GETF). In addition, a number of organizations around the country, called PEER EMS Local Resource Centers, are reaching out to local governments to help them adopt EMSs. Implementation Kansas State University is home to a PEER Center, one of 11 nationwide, promoting regional EMS assistance. As a PEER Center, we provide a broad array of information and tools to help organizations, especially public entities, understand and adopt EMSs for their operations. EMSs use a plan-do-check-act process that can be applied to a variety of issues faced by public entities such as sustainability, energy efficiency, environmental compliance, etc. We provide on-site customized training and technical assistance. Successful implementation of an EMS does not need to be in the form of the more stringent ISO 14001 standard. More information on EMSs for public entities can be found at www.peercenter.net. Stakeholders This can apply to all levels of local units of government that have an interest in addressing their environmental impacts. Examples of Achievements to Date The center holds EMS workshops, performs gap analyses for local governments, and has a certified ISO 140001 auditor on staff. State Contact for Additional Information Barbara Johnson, PE Pollution Prevention Institute Kansas State University 133 Ward Hall Manhattan, KS 66505-2508 800-578-8898 10 ------- Kansas - Financial Assistance for Waste Tire Recycling History/Purpose The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) administers two grant programs to stimulate the recycling of waste tires. The first program offers grants to public or private applicants that cover 50 percent of the capital costs to start up or enhance projects to recycle waste tires including energy recovery projects. The second program offers grants to local units of government to pay up to 50 percent of the costs to purchase products made from waste tires, ncluding things such as playground cover, molded or extruded products, athletic field surfacing, and other approved products. Implementation Applicants for grants are encouraged to attend announced grant workshops, and required to file applications by the deadlines established in grant guides and on the Bureau of Waste Management Web site. The grant deadlines vary from year to year so it is necessary to monitor the KDHE Web site for announcements and application details. In reviewing submitted applications, Bureau of Waste Management staff summarize all applications in a standard format for the eight-member Governor's Solid Waste Grants Advisory Committee that reviews, scores, and makes recommendations to the Secretary of KDHE and the Governor. To be eligible for consideration by KDHE, all applications need to be approved by county solid waste management planning committees or the respective county commissions. Funding for this program comes from the 25-cents per tire excise tax assessed on the sale of all new tires in Kansas. Stakeholders Private parties and local government units are eligible to apply for the capital equipment grants; however, historically it has been only private companies who have been interested in processing and recycling waste tires. Only local units of government are eligible for the grants to fund the purchase of products made from recycled tires. Examples of Achievements to Date The capital equipment grant program has been in effect since 2004. A total of nine grants have been awarded totaling $1,450,000. The first round of grants to purchase products made from recycled tires took place in the fall of 2007, with $408,307 awarded to 39 applicants, primarily to install playground cover. State Contact for Additional Information Kris Hicks or Rodney Ferguson, (785) 296-1600, Kansas Department Health and Environment, Bureau of Waste Management, http://www.kdheks.gov/waste/ 11 ------- Kansas - Illegal Dump Clean-up Program History/Purpose In 2000, the Kansas Legislature amended state law to implement the illegal dump clean-up program administered by the Bureau of Waste Management. The purpose of the program is to provide financial resources to help local governments clean up illegally dumped solid waste when the responsible party is unknown, or unwilling or unable to perform the cleanup. Each year, KDHE identifies dozens of areas where wastes have been illegally dumped. Local units of government must pay 25 percent of the cost of waste cleanup and disposal. This local match can be met by in-kind services. Implementation KDHE cannot initiate the illegal dump program, unless requested to do so by a unit of local government using the reporting form found at the following Web site: http://www.kdheks.gov/waste/bwm illegal dump.html. Forms can be submitted to KDHE at any point in time. Upon receiving a form, the Bureau of Waste Management will evaluate the case and respond to the government unit to discuss site history and to develop a plan for moving forward. If the case is accepted for receiving state funds, an implementation schedule will be developed. Depending upon workload and the risk that a site poses to human health or the environment, it is possible that the cleanup of some sites could be delayed. State law limits the amount of money that KDHE can spend on a given site to $10,000. This limit applies to specific parcels of land, rather than to entire projects. For example, if several parcels of land have been illegally dumped on in a neighborhood, KDHE can spend $10,000 per parcel, rather than for the entire neighborhood. KDHE enters into contracts with local units of government to implement these clean-up projects. Each year, KDHE budgets about $150,000 for illegal dump cleanups; however, in some years when large clean-up projects have taken place, more money has been expended. Stakeholders State law requires KDHE to partner with local governments to implement the illegal dump program. The entire community benefits from clean-up projects through improved aesthetics and decreased safety and environmental risks. Private property owners can also benefit if a local government unit is willing to support a project where that property owner has been dumped upon by one or more unknown parties. Examples of Achievements to Date Hundreds of illegal dump sites have been cleaned up under this program throughout most Kansas counties. A very large project that was noteworthy involved the cleanup of an area known as South Hoisington. About 75 separate abandoned properties had become a dumping ground for decades. KDHE cooperated with Barton County and the City of Hoisington to clean up this area. State expenditures on illegal dump projects have ranged from less than $1,000 to more than $250,000. State Contact for Additional Information Bob Medina, (785) 296-6617, Kansas Department Health and Environment, Bureau of Waste Management, http://www.kdheks.gov/waste/ 12 ------- Iowa - Business and Regulatory Assistance Network History/Purpose The Iowa Business and Regulatory Assistance Network can ensure access and responsiveness by Iowa state government to requests for assistance from citizens, local units of government, small business and industry. Guided by the Iowa Department of Economic Development, Business Assistance Coordinators are designated in agencies across state government to work as a cohesive network to coordinate communication and service. For confidential non-regulatory assistance, you may contact the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED). You may also contact the Business Assistance Coordinator at the specific agency of interest directly. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Economic Development Regulatory Assistance Coordinator 200 E. Grand Ave. Des Moines, IA 50309 1-800-532-1216 or (515) 242-4755 http://regassist.iowa.gov/ Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Business Assistance Coordinator Business assistance coordination is available from the IDNR to assist you in identifying environmental compliance requirements and connecting you with resources to implement source reduction, recycling, and other sustainable business practices. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Natural Resources Business Assistance Coordinator Wallace Building 502 E. 9th Street Des Moines, IA 50319 515-281-7276 http://www.iowadnr.gov/other/bizreg.html 13 ------- Iowa - Water Quality Assistance Program History/Purpose Water Quality Advocate Confidential, non-regulatory compliance assistance is available from the Water Quality Advocate at the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED). The Water Quality Advocate is a focal point of assistance for water quality by coordinating outreach, information and assistance to communities and businesses. The advocate provides assistance in identifying water quality regulatory requirements, programs, and expert resources of assistance. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Economic Development Water Quality Advocate 200 E. Grand Ave. Des Moines, IA 50309 (800) 351-4668 or (515) 242-4871 http://www.iowalifechanging.com/business/water qualitv.html 14 ------- Iowa - Brownfields Redevelopment History/Purpose Targeted Assessments A brownfield is an abandoned, idled, or underutilized property where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. Resources are available to assist communities with assessing and safely cleaning up brownfield sites. A targeted brownfield assessment can determine if environmental contamination exists at a site and identify the best plan for reuse. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Natural Resources Brownfield Redevelopment Program Wallace Building 502 E. 9th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 281-8489 http://www.iowadnr.com/land/consites/brownfields/index.html Financial Assistance The Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) provides an annual competitive funding round to support the redevelopment of eligible brownfield projects. Support of up to 25 percent of qualified project costs for acquisition or remediation may be available. Funding is limited, so check in advance concerning availability. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Economic Development Brownfield Financial Assistance 200 E. Grand Ave. Des Moines, IA 50309 1-800-351-4668 or (515) 242-4906 http://www.iowalifechanging.com/business/brownfields.html 15 ------- Iowa - Wastewater State Revolving Fund Loan Program History/Purpose The Wastewater State Revolving Fund Loan Program provides low-interest loans for municipalities and sanitary districts to finance the design and construction of publicly-owned wastewater treatment and conveyance improvements. These loans do not impact a city's general obligation bonding capacity, as user charge revenues are typically used to secure the loan. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Natural Resources Wastewater State Revolving Fund Wallace Building 502 E. 9th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 725-0498 http://www.iowadnr.com/water/wastewater/cwsrf.html 16 ------- Iowa - Geology and Hydrology History/Purpose Technical assistance and extensive databases for geology, wells, and water quality are available from the Iowa Geological Survey. By utilizing integrated information, more informed decisions can be made at the watershed, county and regional levels. Assistance is available such as geohydrologic consultation for water supply development, mineral extraction, and a wide range of assessments for watershed enhancement activities. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Natural Resources Geological Survey 109 Trowbridge Hall Iowa City, IA 52242-1319 http://www.igsb.uiowa.edu/ 17 ------- Iowa - Energy Efficiency Technologies History/Purpose Energy efficiency programs are available, including grant programs, loan programs, tax incentives, expert assistance and more. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) energy management programs include the Iowa Energy Bank Program for school districts, governments, hospitals, nonprofit organizations and private colleges, and Rebuild Iowa for communities. State Contact for Additional Information Iowa Department of Natural Resources Energy Efficiency Technologies Wallace Building 502 E. 9th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 281-8912 http: //www, i owadnr. com/energy/effi ci encv/index. html 18 ------- Missouri - Land and Water Conservation Fund History/Purpose The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal-matching grant program available for local governments and schools to develop, renovate and/or acquire land for outdoor recreation. The Director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources is the Liaison Officer for the National Park Service in Missouri. To date, more than $90 million has funded more than 1,500 projects. Implementation This is a federal program funded through the U.S. Department of the Interior's National Park Service. Applications are available yearly. The State Inter-Agency for Outdoor Recreation evaluates project proposals and makes recommendations to the National Park Service. The National Park Service reviews the recommended applications and has the final approval. Grants are limited to 10 percent of the federal allocation per state. Annual funding over the past 10 years has ranged from $500,000 to $2 million. Grants provide 45 percent of total project costs up to the grant cap. Issues Continued funding for this program is dependent on federal budget allocation. Stakeholders Local governments and public schools. Examples of Achievements to Date More than $90 million has been awarded to communities since the program's inception in 1965. State Contact for Additional Information Chris Buckland, (573) 751-0848, chris.buckland@dnr.mo.gov 19 ------- Missouri - Illegal Disposal of Solid Waste History/Purpose The illegal dumping of solid waste has been and continues to be a problem in Missouri. Aside from the diminished aesthetic appearance of Missouri's natural resources and associated negative impacts on tourism, these dumps pose threats to public health and the environment. Efforts by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) to curb illegal dumping are limited by staffing. In addition, "normal" dumping is done in very remote locations. Many of the persons responsible for illegal dumping have very limited financial resources and are unable to pay for removing the trash to legal destinations. Local enforcement and prosecution is much quicker and has a greater deterrent effect. Implementation The department's Solid Waste Management Program and Environmental Investigation Unit attend the Missouri Local Prosecutors Conference twice a year, providing a booth where examples of recent illegal dumping violations are presented through photographs and discussions with the various county and city prosecutors. Additionally, the Solid Waste Management Program and Environmental Investigation Unit continue to work with local law enforcement to encourage their investigation and enforcement of criminal dumping statutes. During the 2007 legislative session, the department was successful in amending the solid waste statutes pertaining to civil penalties and the criminal classification of illegal dumping. The changes included an increase in maximum civil penalties for illegal dumping from $1,000 per day per violation to $5,000 per day per violation. Additionally, the criminal classification for illegal dumping under certain circumstances was changed from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony. The statute changes took effect on January 1, 2008. Through this interaction, the department is able to network with local prosecutors and local law enforcement to enlist their assistance with investigating and prosecuting illegal dumping violations. The recent changes in the criminal classification for illegal dumping from a misdemeanor to a felony have gained the interest of many local prosecutors and law enforcement. Stakeholders Local law enforcement and local prosecutors. Achievements to Date The number of local prosecuting attorneys willing to accept criminal dumping cases is increasing, as well as the number of criminal dumping violations being investigated by local law enforcement. State Contact for Additional Information Dan Fester, (573) 526-3909 Dan.fester@dnr.mo.gov 20 ------- Missouri - Asbestos Removal History/Purpose The Missouri Department of Natural Resource's Air Pollution Control Program (APCP) of the State of Missouri implements state and federal regulations regarding the removal of asbestos. Community Development Block Grants have been made available to small communities desiring to initiate improvement projects. Many times, these projects involve the demolition of structures in blighted areas. These structures are generally residential in nature. EPA guidance indicates that multiple structures in a one-block area that are to be demolished in a calendar year are subject to federal asbestos regulations. The department's APCP has worked with the Department of Economic Development (DED) to educate small communities about the requirements of the asbestos regulations. Implementation Through a number of avenues, the department's APCP will become aware that communities have been awarded grants to conduct demolitions of residential structures. The APCP then contacts the community representatives and the DED to obtain more information regarding the details of the project. The APCP will then go about educating the communities on the asbestos requirements and assist them in designing their projects so that they will comply with the rules. Stakeholders Local communities and landowners. Examples of Achievements to Date • Developed training program to assist communities • Trained DED personnel on asbestos requirements • Face-to-face meetings with individual communities • Assistance in designing demolition project plans State Contact for Additional Information Steven Feeler, (573) 751-4817, or visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/apcp/index.html (Air Pollution Control Program) for more information. 21 ------- Missouri - Illegal Dumping Surveillance Camera Project History/Purpose This project consists of deploying surveillance camera equipment at unpermitted roadside dumps to obtain clear evidence of illegal activity and identify violators. This evidence is then turned over to local prosecutors for enforcement, cleaning up dump sites, and paying penalties, in order to deter illegal dumping. Prior to this project, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources had very little success identifying parties responsible for promiscuous dumping. Illegal dumpers must be positively identified in order to collect penalties and require cleanup. If dumps are not cleaned up, experience shows that illegal dumping will continue. Implementation The dump must be active and there must be a good location to deploy the camera equipment. In some instances, the department must gain permission from private landowners to deploy the equipment on their property. This is generally done through an access agreement. Local prosecuting attorneys and sheriff s officers are briefed and their support is gained. Camera equipment is then deployed. Periodic maintenance is conducted, batteries are changed, hard drives downloaded and the team ensures that the equipment has not been damaged or vandalized. The data is then reviewed, license plate numbers are gathered and checked, and contact is made with the identified dumpers. Interviews of dumpers are conducted in conjunction with local law enforcement personnel, confession statements are taken, and documentation prepared. The local judge is briefed, the parties meet in court, the judge issues his orders, any follow-up work is conducted, and all documentation is filed. Completed cases are then publicized. As a result of the publicity, all activity stops at the dumpsites where the cameras were deployed. Stakeholders Prosecuting attorneys, judges, sheriff departments' staff, county and city public works staff, solid waste management district staff, the general public, and landowners where illegal dumping is occurring. Examples of Achievements to Date The initial startup cost was provided by a federal grant. Existing staff are used for this project. Approximately $2,500 in supplies is purchased each year including equipment repairs, batteries, gas, and vehicle use. Total personnel time utilized is % of one full-time employee. The project obtains no additional funds to operate. Necessary costs are paid out of existing funds. As of the end of 2004, the department turned 38 illegal dumping cases over to county prosecutors throughout the state with evidence obtained from utilizing the surveillance cameras. All resulted in convictions, where the judge has ordered each individual to pay restitution back to the county so the monies can be used to clean up the subject dump site. The department's camera program was down during calendar year 2005 to replace and update equipment. The department resumed surveillance camera activity in summer 2006, and is continuing to develop cases for presentation to local prosecutors. Publicity has helped to deter potential illegal dumping activity and educate many thousands of citizens about the laws, effects, and risks of illegal dumping. State Contact for Additional Information Mike Potter, (573) 522-2689, mike,potter@dnr mo.gov 22 ------- Missouri - Clean Water & Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program History/Purpose In 1990 Missouri began the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program followed this in 1998. The CWSRF and DWSRF receive capitalization grants from the Environmental Protection Agency, which are matched with state funds. These funds are used to provide low interest loans for wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects. Implementation Loans are made to eligible applicants based on priority and readiness-to-proceed criteria. Small entities that would qualify for an SRF loan, but are found to be financially incapable of retiring the debt, are referred to other federal and state agencies for funding. Loans may be secured by a revenue, or general obligation, bond issue. Entities desiring to be considered for funding from either program must submit an application by November 15th of the year prior to the fiscal year that funding is desired. Missouri law requires that at least 35 percent of the monies credited to the DWSRF program is made available to systems that serve fewer than 10,000 people. Twenty percent is for systems serving 3,000 or fewer people, 15 percent is for systems serving 3,301 to 9,999 people. Stakeholders This program is federally funded and provides financial assistance to municipalities, counties, public sewer and water districts, small business owners, and others in the private sector. Examples of Achievements to Date • Since the inception of the State Revolving Fund program, more than $1.8 billion has been provided to Missouri entities for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements. • Approximately $100.9 million has been provided in low interest loans, to public water systems with a service population of less than 10,000 persons, for water system improvements. • Approximate $343.8 million has been provided in low interest loans, to communities with a population of less than 10,000 persons, for wastewater system improvements. State Contact for Additional Information Doug Garrett, (573) 751-5723, doug.garrett@dnr.mo.gov, or visit http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/srf/cwsrf-info.htm for information on the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. Stephen Jones, (573) 522-1803, stephen.iones@dnr.mo.gov. or visit http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/srf/dwsrf-info.htm for information on the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. 23 ------- Missouri - Rural Sewer Grant Program History/Purpose The Rural Sewer and Water Grant Programs were implemented in 1983. The programs were developed to assist small rural communities, and public water and sewer districts, in funding drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Implementation This is a state program funded through the sale of State Water Pollution Control bonds. These grant programs are intended to be secondary sources of funding. Applicants must first apply to the agency or institution that is to provide the primary funding source. Grants are limited to $1,400 per connection or 50 percent of the eligible project cost, or $500,000, whichever is greater. Issues: Continued funding for this program is dependent upon the sale of state bonds. Stakeholders This program provides financial assistance to rural municipalities, counties, public sewer and water districts. Examples of Achievements to Date More than $16.0 million has been awarded to communities through this program since 2000. These funds were used in conjunction with other state and federal funding to provide complete drinking water and wastewater infrastructure in rural areas. State Contact for Additional Information JoyReven (573)751-2735 Jov.reven@dnr.mo.gov 24 ------- Missouri - State Forty-Percent Construction Grant Program History/Purpose In 1990 the Missouri Clean Water Commission developed the State Forty-Percent Construction Grant Program to provide assistance to those communities financially ineligible for Missouri's Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) leveraged loan program. The leveraged loan program is the flagship program of the CWSRF. All projects are listed in the CWSRF Intended Use Plan and approved by the commission. Implementation This is a state program funded through the sale of State Water Pollution Control bonds. Applicants must receive an invitation to apply from the Missouri Water & Wastewater Review Committee (MWWRC). The Committee is composed of representatives from state and federal infrastructure funding agencies. The Committee evaluates project proposals and makes a recommendation as to which state and/or federal program may be appropriate for each project proposal. The potential recipient is then invited to apply, based upon their application and the financial information provided to the Committee. A direct loan using CWSRF repayment funds is offered to the eligible recipient of the Forty- Percent Grant for as much as 60 percent of project costs. Issues Continued funding for the Forty-Percent Construction Grant Program is dependent on the sale of state bonds. Stakeholders This program provides financial assistance to municipalities, public sewer and water districts. Examples of Achievements to Date > More than 50 communities have been assisted through this program. > More than $30 million has been awarded to communities through this program. State Contact for Additional Information Joy Reven, (573) 751-2735. iov.reven@dnr.mo.gov. or visit http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/srf/cwsrf-info.htm. for more information. 25 ------- Missouri - Small Borrower Program History/Purpose In 2002 the Missouri Clean Water Commission approved the development of the Small Borrowers Program. The Small Borrowers Program is designed to assist small communities meet their immediate water and wastewater financial needs. These funds would help a small community in emergency situations. However, as funding allows, communities that have received as much funding as possible from other sources but still do not have all the financing necessary to complete the project may receive additional funding through the Small Borrower Program. Implementation Loans are funded through the sale of state bonds and are awarded on a first come basis. Loans may be secured by a bond issue or annually appropriated debt. Uncommitted funds can be accessed throughout the year and made available upon commission review and approval. Issues Continued funding for the Small Borrower Program is dependent upon the sale of state bonds. Stakeholders The program is limited to communities under 1,000 population and the loan amount is limited to $100,000. Examples of Achievements to Date > Twenty communities have been or are being assisted through this program. > More than $1 million dollars have been awarded as loans to these communities. State Contact for additional information Joy Reven, (573) 751-2735. iov.reven@dnr.mo.gov. or visit http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/srf/cwsrf-info.htm. for more information. 26 ------- Missouri - Waste Reduction and Recycling History/Purpose Each year, funds are generated through the collection of a solid waste fee on every ton of solid waste disposed in a sanitary landfill or demolition landfill, or transported out of state from a transfer station in Missouri. The fee originated from legislation passed by the Missouri legislature in 1990 to promote waste reduction and recycling and to conserve landfill space, and became effective October 1, 1990. Implementation Through grants, the department encourages waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and energy recovery. Grants are administered by the state's 20 solid waste management districts for projects in their areas. The districts select proposals that best meet local goals for reducing the amount of waste disposed in landfills. Funds also support financial and technical assistance to promote the development of markets for recovered materials. Stakeholders Stakeholders include the state's 20 solid waste management districts, the solid waste management industry, recycling facilities, and the general public. A significant portion of the fee collected provides grants to small communities and urban areas for waste reduction and recycling projects that provide an outlet for recycling collection made available to the general public (individuals). Examples of Achievements to Date During 2006, Missourians generated approximately 12.5 million tons of waste. Forty-four percent of this waste was diverted and put to good use, instead of being buried in landfills. Since 1990, this percentage of diversion has risen from 10 to a high of 47 percent, because of an increase in recycling and yard waste services and more markets for the materials. More Missourians now have recycling and composting services in their communities, providing the public a convenient and affordable alternative to disposal. State Contact for Additional Information Brenda Ardrey, (573) 751-5401, or visit http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/financial/Swmpfund.htm for more information. 27 ------- Missouri - Engineering Contract Services History/Purpose A portion of the two-percent set aside of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) is used for engineering contract services (engineering report studies) for small, incorporated water systems in need of improving TMF capacity. The needs are based primarily on compliance information and infrastructure conditions and capacity, along with the willingness of the systems to look at consolidation options, whether physical and/or operational/managerial. Engineering contract services provide systems with the funding to have the entire system evaluated, considering all options. Water systems that apply with the intent to benefit another system(s) obtain priority points in the application process for the problems associated with the other system(s) [for example, a public water supply district expanding to take over operation and maintenance of a mobile home park water system in need]. The Contract for Engineering Services also assists small water systems with obtaining funding for project development, as there is a requirement for systems to apply to the Missouri Water and Wastewater Review Committee (MWWRC) for project development and construction funding. The MWWRC is comprised of all the state and federal funding agencies within Missouri and includes MoDNR's DWSRF Loan Program, MoDNR's PDWB Rural Grant and Loan Program, the Missouri Department of Economic Development's Community Development Block Grant Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Program. Uses of the funds may include consolidating with another system, upgrading the source, treatment, storage, and distribution systems, and other measures to bring the system into TMF compliance. The MWWRC meet monthly to discuss all project applicants' needs and possible funding options to best fit those needs. Implementation For FY2007, applications were mailed to all municipalities and public water supply districts serving 10,000 or less in population. The application is very brief and coordinates with the SRF application by assigning priority points for certain issues that a system may have (e.g., lack of storage, lack of capacity, security). The department received 44 applications and 27 funding awards were made for a maximum amount of $10,000 each. The payments are made in 25 percent increments, with the final payment not being made until after the submitted engineering report has been approved. Stakeholders Stakeholders include engineering firms, and municipalities and public water supply districts serving populations of 10,000 or less. Examples of Achievements to Date There have been 134 small water systems funded through the Engineering Report Services from FY 2000 to FY 2007. Of the 134 systems, 51 have applied to the MWWRC and 29 have been funded for project development, and approximately two are currently being evaluated for project development funding. There were 34 systems funded in FY 2006. This program has resulted in many small water systems with compliance problems connecting to larger, viable systems; the formation of regional water systems to eliminate small systems with significant non-compliance problems; and small systems obtaining managerial and financial capacity to address their technical needs. State Contact for Additional Information Steven C. Wyatt, (573) 751-1599 28 ------- Missouri - Environmental Emergency Response History/Purpose The Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Environmental Emergency Response (EER) Section gains its authority from Chapter 260-500-550, RSMo, commonly referred to as the "Spill Bill." The Spill Bill also gave local agencies the ability to seek reimbursement for reasonable cleanup costs associated with a hazardous substance release to which they responded. Disputed costs may be appealed to the department and a determination will be made by the department (EER Section) on what costs are reasonable and appropriate. The EER Section has a spill reporting telephone number (573-634-2436) answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week by technical staff for environmental emergencies, such as petroleum and chemicals releases and other environmental concerns. By contacting this number, responsible parties fulfill any state reporting requirements. The EER Section has hazardous materials trained responders available 24/7 statewide to respond on-site to assist local officials during a hazardous materials incident. Implementation The EER Section has hazardous materials technicians specially trained as duty officers to maintain the 24/7 spill reporting number (573-634-2436) to report environmental emergencies in Jefferson City. There are 13 duty officers that rotate this responsibility. The EER Section also has certified hazardous materials technicians trained as state on-scene coordinators throughout the state. These coordinators serve the St. Louis Metro Area (3), southeast Missouri (2), southwest Missouri (2), Kansas City metro area/northwest Missouri (2), and northeast Missouri (1). The EER Section also has five full-time state on-scene coordinators serving mid-Missouri and supporting all other statewide state on-scene coordinators and seven part-time staff serving in the same capacity as mentioned above. The EER Section has hazardous materials cleanup contractors available 24/7 to bring resources to the scene, in the event that the responsible party is unknown or recalcitrant. Stakeholders Anyone adversely impacted by an environmental emergency. Examples of Achievements to Date Statistics for 1/1/07 through 12/19/07: Total reported incidents - 2128 • meth lab incidents - 650 • haz mat/other incidents - 1478 670 petroleum-related 96 sewage-related 47 agricultural-related 62 mercury-related 24 waste tire-related 35 animal waste-related 13 explosives/ordnance-related 58 abandoned containers 16 fishkills 39 anhydrous ammonia • 306 on-site responses State Contact for Additional Information Brian Allen, 573-526-3380, brian.allen@dnr mo gov, or Brad Harris, (573) 526-4794, brad.harris@dnr.mo.gov. or visit www.dnr.mo.gov for more information. 29 ------- Missouri - Clandestine Drug Lab Collection Station Program History/Purpose The Clandestine Drug Lab Collection Station Program (CDLCS), authorized by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Hazardous Waste Program, partners with local agencies (fire departments, haz mat teams) and law enforcement agencies to locate 20 collection sites throughout the state. After receiving proper training, law enforcement then self-transports seized clandestine drug lab materials (primarily from meth lab incidents) to the nearest CDLCS. A CDLCS provides for a legal, safe, and secure location in which the meth lab chemicals are managed and temporarily stored, pending processing and proper disposal. Implementation There are currently 20 CDLCSs operating throughout the state located in the following cities: Sedalia, Grain Valley, Kansas City, Maryville, Richmond, Trenton, Kirksville, Palmyra, Troy, Chesterfield, Union, Hillsboro, Jackson, Kennett, Poplar Bluff, West Plains, Joplin, Nevada, Osage Beach, and Rolla. The Environmental Emergency Response (EER) Section and the Missouri State Highway Patrol deliver a 40-hour hazardous materials/health-and-safety training course that instructs and certifies law enforcement to enter and dismantle clandestine labs. These agencies also sponsor annual 8-hour health-and-safety refreshers, field screening and site safety officer training course. The EER Section also distributes personal protective equipment and supplies, cleanup items, and air monitoring equipment to local agencies at no cost. Stakeholders Missouri law enforcement agencies directly benefit. The health and safety of the citizens of Missouri and the environment are better protected and a cost-efficient mechanism is in place to safely dispose of seized chemicals, saving taxpayers millions of dollars. Examples of Achievements to Date • To date, more than 10,700 meth lab incidents totaling 422,636 lbs. of debris have been processed at the collection stations. Included in this figure is more than 103,600 lbs. of hazardous waste that has been disposed of properly, and nearly 58,000 lbs. of material has been reused/recycled. • To date, more than 875 law enforcement officers and other emergency response officials have received training during 32 40-hour hazardous materials/health-and-safety courses. • To date, the following supplies, equipment, and air monitoring have been provided: - air-purifying respirators: 481 provided, 219 agencies benefited - self-contained breathing apparatus: 327 provided, 147 agencies benefited - supply kits: 450 provided, 209 agencies benefited - Drager pump kits: 227 provided, 136 agencies benefited State Contact for Additional Information Brian Allen, (573) 526-3380, brian.allen@dnr.mo.gov. or Brad Harris, (573) 526-4794, brad.harris@dnr.mo.gov. or visit www.dnr.mo.gov for more information. 30 ------- Missouri - Environmental Assistance Visits (EAVs) History/Purpose The Environmental Assistance Visit (EAV) is an on-site visit with the appropriate representative(s) of a regulated facility. The EAV is intended to improve the understanding of a permit, registration, certification, report or other similar requirement. The EAV provides an opportunity to enhance environmental compliance with the regulations and provides a resource for assistance. It differs from a compliance inspection in that it is voluntary and focused on providing assistance rather than solely checking for compliance. The EAV inspector provides relevant guidance documents and other helpful information to the facility representative. Training about required sampling, recordkeeping, operations, and maintenance should be included if appropriate. Acceptable reduced regulatory requirements may be discussed and suggested (i.e., steps that can be taken to operate as a small rather than a large quantity hazardous waste generator). Areas where the facility has good performance as well as areas of concern are noted during the EAV. The goal of an EAV is to obtain timely, voluntary, and long-term compliance. No enforcement will be initiated during an EAV unless acute violations are discovered at the facility. In general, an acute violation is one that is immediately or imminently harmful to human health or the environment. Significant non-acute violations are noted and explained to the facility. Implementation All Environmental Assistance Visits are conducted by department staff from one of the department's five regional offices. Because EAVs are voluntary, staff are asked to call in advance and seek a facility's participation. EAVs may also be performed unannounced (cold calls) to effectively use available time and travel opportunities. In either case, facilities have the opportunity to reject the offered EAV without fear of any further action by the department. Staff prepare for an EAV by reviewing the facility's permit, registration or certification, and gathering relevant technical bulletins and other information to leave with the facility representative, including an example of an inspection checklist, if one exists. During the EAV, staff review the permit, registration, or certification with the facility representative. The staff member conducting the EAV explains the department's expectations of environmental compliance; seeks the understanding of and answers questions related to the permit, certification or registration; and explains any recordkeeping requirements. The staff member conducting the EAV also performs a walk-through of the facility, explaining monitoring or sampling techniques, providing assistance on operation and maintenance, pointing out and explaining areas of compliance and of concern, and reviewing best management practices. This is followed by an exit interview where the findings of the visit are discussed. Stakeholders Any facility that operates under a permit issued by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Examples of Achievements to Date From January 2006 (the start of the first full calendar year of the EAV program) through November 2007, the department has conducted more than 5,800 EAVs. Customer Satisfaction: During FY 2006, the department conducted an initial pilot project consisting of 189 Environmental Assistance Visits. Recipients of the visits were surveyed and asked to rate the 31 ------- effectiveness of the visit on a scale of 1 to 10(10 being the best); the average rating was 9.2. Nearly 99 percent of the respondents reported that they felt well served by the department. State Contact for Additional Information Regional directors: St. Louis, Mike Struckhoff, (314) 416-2960 Kansas City, Karl Fett, (816) 622-7000 Springfield, Cindy Davies, (417) 891-4300 Poplar Bluff, Gary Gaines, (573) 840-9750 Macon, Irene Crawford, (660) 385-8090 32 ------- Missouri - Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) History/Purpose The Governor of Missouri entered a memorandum of agreement with USDA establishing Missouri's Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). Partners to this program include the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), the Missouri Department of Conservation, and others. The program protects drinking water reservoirs by reducing excess pesticides, nutrients, and sediment running off cropland, while also providing wildlife habitat. The program is similar to a traditional Conservation Reserve Program, except that it is available only in drinking water watersheds. Being located in an eligible watershed ensures the landowners acceptance into the program. CREP pays incentives beyond a traditional Conservation Reserve Program. Implementation Eligible water systems were informed of the program. USDA field staff contact farmers and landowners in the watersheds that chose to participate. MDNR's Public Drinking Water Branch awards grants to water systems. That grant money is then passed to participating farmers as incentives to join the program. MDNR's Soil & Water Conservation Program also shares the cost of implementing conservation practices on the retired cropland. These two sources of state funds serve as 20-percent match for the program. USDA approved 80 percent of the funding in the form of rental and other payments directly to landowners. Once enrolled, the lands remain in the program for 10 to 15 years. Stakeholders Stakeholders include public drinking water systems, communities (mostly rural), water system customers, landowners, and tenant farmers. Examples of Achievements to Date The federal, state, and local partnership implementing CREP has enrolled 23,682 acres on 624 different contracts in the program. By taking this land out of agricultural production, the amount of pesticides, nutrients, and sediment flowing into drinking water reservoirs has been reduced. This reduces the cost of drinking water treatment, improves the safety of drinking water, and extends the usable life of the reservoirs. Thirty counties in the State of Missouri have benefited from this program. The program will also bring more than $30 million of federal money into these small communities over the next 15 years. State Contact for Additional Information Jeremy Redden, (660) 582-0439 33 ------- Missouri - Geographic Reference System (GRS) History/Purpose The Missouri GRS consists of very accurate, permanent survey monuments located approximately two to four miles apart. Each monument's position is determined by GPS for latitude, longitude, elevation and state plane coordinates. The cooperative contracts provide for the densification of this network at the county or city level or for specific geographic areas. Implementation The cooperative survey projects are offered to an entire county, municipalities, large or small cities, and are funded on a two-thirds to one-third match. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources funds the two-thirds portion and the cooperative entity pays the one-third portion. Contracts are normally entered into at the county level. However, we can and have provided smaller scale projects with small communities. Issues These projects will continue to be funded at a rate of two to four counties per year. Cooperating counties and current staff size will limit our ability to do more than this amount. Stakeholders County assessors, professional land surveyors, cartographers, engineering companies, and the general public. Examples of Achievements to Date Since 1986, approximately 36 county wide GRS projects have been completed. There are currently two contracts in progress due to be completed in February 2008, and a third contract with a target completion date of January 2009. State Contact for Additional Information J. Michael Flowers, PLS, State Land Surveyor, (573) 368-2300, mike.flowers@dnr.mo.gov 34 ------- Nebraska - Nebraska Environmental Partnerships (NEP) History/Purpose The NEP program is a unique and innovative state-coordinated effort that helps small and rural governments address the challenges posed by complex environmental regulations, limited financial resources, aging infrastructure, aging population, and small communities getting smaller. The NEP program assists small communities with meeting these challenges through a team process that helps the community prioritize risks and find technically and financially feasible solutions. The program was launched in 1994 as the Nebraska Mandates Management Initiative (NMMI) and was designed to help small communities (typically populations of 1,000 or less) cope with the increasing number of unfunded federal environmental regulations. As the NMMI program worked with communities, it was discovered that most were not in violation of environmental regulations but many had significant environmental infrastructure issues. Because of these findings, the program changed its name from NMMI to NEP to reflect the change in focus. Implementation NEP uses intergovernmental and interdisciplinary team processes to work with communities. The intent is to help local leaders better understand regulations; analyze the local situations and issues; prioritize the problems according to their associated risks; and find technically and financially feasible solutions to the identified problems and risks. Facility Plans are first steps toward wastewater project funding. NEP administers a Facility Planning Grant program through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) that can assist in the procurement of a Facility Plan. Facility Planning Grants allow publicly-owned wastewater treatment works serving populations of 5,000 or less, which are identified with a financial hardship, the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $20,000 to assist in a wastewater project. The system must be listed on the current Intended Use Plan, and be considered "high priority" in order to receive the grant. Preliminary Engineering Reports (PERs) are first steps toward drinking water project funding. NEP also administers a Planning Grant program through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) that can assist in the procurement of a PER. Planning Grants allow public water supply systems serving populations of 10,000 or less the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $15,000 to assist in a drinking water project. In 2007, planning grant assistance was expanded to include regional water supply systems' PERs being funded up to $25,000. All systems must be listed on the current Intended Use Plan, and be considered "high priority" to be grant-eligible. In order to expand services, but continue its mission of working with small Nebraska communities, the NEP has begun partnering with the Waste Management Division's Planning & Aid Unit at the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality. 35 ------- The Planning & Aid Unit includes the following programs: Waste Reduction and Recycling Incentive Grants; Litter Reduction and Recycling Grants; Illegal Dumpsite Cleanup; and the Landfill Disposal Fee Rebate Program. NEP assists in grant reviews and other areas as needed. Stakeholders The NEP team consists of representatives from state agencies, the University of Nebraska, statewide organizations, regional organizations, and the federal government. Examples of Achievements to Date > An evaluative study to assess the environmental effects on business in small communities. > Provided community assessments or initiated the community assessment process in 230 communities. Provided Planning and Facility Planning grant funding to 113 communities totaling $1,320,990. > Created and implemented community informational training to address individual community's current issues and needs. State Contact for Additional Information Jackie Stumpff, (402) 471-3193, iackie.stumpff@ndeq.state.ne.us. or visit www.deq.state.ne.usA Environmental Assistance Programs for more information. 36 ------- Nebraska - Partnership for Rural Nebraska (PRN) History/Purpose The original charter for the Partnership for Rural Nebraska was approved and signed on August 9, 1995 by the Governor of Nebraska, the President of the University of Nebraska, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The mission of the Partnership for Rural Nebraska is to improve the effectiveness of resources that support local-based rural development efforts statewide, and to better utilize human and financial resources for rural development. Implementation Separately, each of these critical public institutions has a statewide mission and administrative responsibilities for a large percentage of the resources available to assist rural Nebraska. Together, these institutions have the potential to leverage additional resources to benefit rural Nebraska, and to better utilize existing resources. The Partnership for Rural Nebraska concept builds upon positive results of voluntary communication and collaboration, both statewide and locally. The PRN cooperates on program and service delivery, thereby achieving greater efficiency and easing the access by rural Nebraskans to partner programs. It also: > Educates each other on available resources and rural development needs, using educational opportunities such as the annual Nebraska Rural Institute, and agency orientations. > Communicates to Nebraskans and others regarding rural development activities, opportunities, and challenges through the newsletter, Rural News Bits. Stakeholders The Partnership for Rural Nebraska is a strategic partnership formed by three major institutions: > University of Nebraska including, but not limited to, the UNL Center for Applied Rural Innovation (CARI); the UNK Center for Rural Research and Development; and the NU Rural Initiative > State of Nebraska including, but not limited to, the Department of Economic Development; and the Department of Environmental Quality > U.S. Department of Agriculture including, but not limited to, USDA Rural Development; and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Examples of Achievements to Date > The Nebraska Rural Institute, an annual conference educating participants about rural development. Over 2,000 attendees have participated in the conference since its implementation in 1995. >• "Let's Meet..." in Rural News Bits to introduce people who are working in rural development. Rural News Bits is published 12 times a year, and reaches over 6,000 subscribers. > Agency orientation sessions to inform participants (primarily new employees) of the programs in various organizations across the state. State Contact for Additional Information Jackie Stumpff, (402) 471 -3193. i ackie.stumpff@,ndeq.state.ne.us. or visit www.deq.state.ne.us/. Environmental Assistance Programs for more information. 37 ------- Nebraska - Water Wastewater Advisory Committee (WWAC) History/Purpose The WW AC was created in 1997 to optimize sources and uses of funding for water and sewer projects; provide the best funding package to a community; work with communities as a team to assist them in building a project; and in one-stop shopping. Implementation Agency staffs meet monthly on an informal basis to discuss the progress of jointly funded projects and to identify the best options available for funding a new project. The WW AC reviews the project pre-application, then advises the applicant which assistance provider(s) can best meet the project funding needs. Project owners may also contact the individual agencies directly without going to the WW AC. Stakeholders > U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD) for water and wastewater grant and loan programs > Nebraska Health and Human Services System Regulation & Licensure (HHSS R&L) representing the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund (DWSRF) > Nebraska Department of Economic Development for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program > Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ) for the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund (CWSRF), and the Nebraska Environmental Partnerships Program (NEP) for planning grants and facility planning grants WW AC activities are coordinated by a Steering Committee. No specific agency has the lead. Examples of Achievements to Date > The Nebraska WW AC is one of the first multi-agency efforts in the United States that addresses water and wastewater projects jointly, and seeks to find the best funding source for the community. > In state fiscal year 2006, WW AC agencies awarded over $60 million to 35 communities. State Contact for Additional Information Jackie Stumpff, (402) 471-3193, iackie.stumpff@ndeq.state.ne.us. or visit www.deq.state.ne.usA Environmental Assistance Programs for more information. 38 ------- Nebraska - State Revolving Fund (SRF) History/Purpose Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund The Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund provides low-interest loans to municipalities for construction of wastewater treatment facilities and sanitary sewer collection systems. The sources of funding for this program include federal grants, an initial state general fund appropriation, and funds from the Nebraska Investment Financial Authority (NIFA) through bond issuance. In FY 2007, loans totaling $11.7 million were allocated and $29.8 million was disbursed. The Nebraska Environment Partnerships program used Clean Water State Revolving Fund administrative cash funds to provide facility planning grant assistance to eligible municipalities for wastewater treatment system improvement projects that may seek funding through the Water Wastewater Advisory Committee Common Pre-application Process. This financial assistance is being provided to communities to identify capital improvement needs, as well as increase their readiness to proceed in accomplishing these improvements. Facility planning grants may be provided to municipalities with populations of 5,000 or less that are identified with a financial hardship. This includes any city, town, village, sanitary improvement district, natural resources district, or other public body created by or pursuant to state law having jurisdiction over a wastewater treatment facility. Privately-owned wastewater treatment systems are not eligible for assistance. FY 2007 grants are provided for up to 80 percent of the eligible facility plan project cost, but cannot exceed $15,000 (an increase from FY 2005's limit of $12,500). Drinking Water State Revolving Fund The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund provides funding assistance on drinking water projects. In FY 2007, loans totaling $8.2 million were allocated and $10.0 million was disbursed. The construction of wastewater and drinking water facilities is a multi-year process. There are projects that were approved in previous fiscal years which may have received funds in FY 2007. Conversely, projects approved in FY 2007 may receive funds in future fiscal years. Source water protection activities that address drinking water quality, quantity, security, or education are eligible for grant funding. These grants have allowed public water suppliers to place security fences around well fields, install water-saving devices within the community, decommission unused wells in Wellhead Protection Areas, and provide useful educational information to the public. Grants usually range from $10,000 to $50,000. The Nebraska Environmental Partnerships program used Drinking Water State Revolving Fund local assistance set-aside funds to provide planning grant assistance to small public water supply systems as a part of the state's capacity development strategy to help communities develop technical, managerial, and financial capacity, particularly as it relates to long-term capital improvement needs. This financial assistance is being provided to communities to identify capital improvement needs, as well as increase their readiness to proceed in accomplishing these improvements. Planning grants may be provided to publicly-owned water supply systems serving 10,000 or fewer people. This includes any city, town, village, sanitary improvement district, natural resource district, or other public body created by or pursuant to state law having jurisdiction over a public water supply system. Privately- owned water supply systems are not eligible for assistance. State Contact for Additional Information Jackie Stumpff, (402) 471 -3193. iackie.stumpff@,ndea.state.ne.us. or visit www.dea.state.ne.us/. Environmental Assistance Programs for more information. 39 ------- This Page left intentionally blank 40 ------- |