The Tribal Newsletter is issued free each month. https://go.usa.gov/xXNnW Region 10 Tribal ewsletter oEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency Vol.. 26 No. 5 May 2017 The EPA provides some external links in this newsletter for informational purposes only. The EPA cannot attest to the accuracy of non-EPA information provided by any third-party sites or any other linked site. The EPA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies, internet applications or any policies or information expressed therein. Top News May is Asthma Awareness Month Asthma affects over 25 million people. Each May, organizations join together to increase awareness of the asthma epidemic and to take action to get asthma under control. EPA developed an event planning kit to assist in hosting awareness and action events. To access the kit, sample materials and an order form, go to https://www.epa.gov/ asthma/asthma-awareness-month-event-planning-kit. To learn more about asthma, how to manage triggers and for educational resources and videos, go to https://www.epa.gov/asthma. Asthma Awareness Month twnl Piirinirig Kit AST Addressing Asthma n Tribal Communities in the Northwest Asthma disproportionately impacts tribal communities, and conditions in homes can impact respiratory health. EPA is working with a team of partners in the Pacific Northwest to help improve indoor air quality and better manage asthma by building community support networks involving clinical, housing, environment, and social services programs. These networks can provide home visits that involve patient education, home assessments, and changes to the home that improve health. Working Together to Address Asthma in Tribal Communities in the Northwest Hear from Agency representatives and tribal leaders about the asthma and healthy homes work happening in the Pacific Northwest by watching a short video online at https://youtube/gGsYZ-fTUpl. ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Pictured left to right: Scott Pruitt, Gerald Wagner, and Evaristo Cruz EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt Met with National Tribal Caucus Members In April, EPA Administrator, Scott Pruitt held a working meeting at EPA headquarters with Evaristo Cruz, Chairman of the National Tribal Caucus from the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo in Texas, and Geraid Wagner from the Black- feet Tribe in Montana, "Chairman Cruz and the National Tribal Caucus are important partners that help EPA achieve its mission to protect the health of all Americans," said Administrator Pruitt. "I look forward to working towards the agency's commitment to the 1984 EPA Indian Policy, and working closely and continuously with the National Tribal Caucus to ensure clean water, air and land for America's tribes." The NTC is a national body of high-level tribal advisors, who identify and address top priority tribal environmental issues for the Agency. NTC members are selected on a regional basis by each Regional Tribal Operations Committee or its equivalent, and represent all tribes within their region. To learn more about the National Tribal Caucus, go to https://www.epa.gov/tribal/national-tribal-caucus. EPA's 1984 Indian Policy is available online at https://go.usa.gov/x5kpt. To read more about the meeting Administrator Pruitt held with these NTC members, go to https://go.usa.gov/x5kdq. Air Quality Awareness Week Air Quality Awareness Week is May 1-5. This year's theme is Be Air Aware. In the Pacific Northwest, particulate matter poses the most air quality problems of all the criteria pollutants. Residential home heating from burning wood for heat is the primary source of exceedances in all fine particulate matter (PM2.5) nonattainment areas. One solution is to not burn on days with bad air quality, unless it is your only source of heat. For simple steps towards burning cleaner, go to https://www.epa.gov/burnwise/burn-wise-best-burn-practices. Clean Air Act Advisory Committee EPA's Clean Air Act Advisory Committee is comprised of experts from state, tribal, and local government, environmental and public interest groups, industry and others, who provide advice, and recommendations on policy and technical issues associated with implementation of the Clean Air Act. Committee members from the following tribes were recently appointed to serve on the CAAAC: Natalene Cummings from the Forest County Potawatomi Community, Melanie Lawson of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, and Kris Ray from the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. To learn more about the CAAAC, go to https://www.epa.gov/caaac. 2- ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Volkswagen Clean Air Act Settlement for Tribes EPA resolved allegations that Volkswagen violated the Clean Air Act with the sale of approximately 500,000 motor vehicles containing 2.0-liter diesel engines equipped with "defeat devices" - software designed to cheat on federal emission tests. Diesel vehicles emit nitrogen oxides, which are a serious health concern. Under the partial settlement, Volkswagen will pay $2.7 billion to fully remediate the excess NOx emissions from the affected 2.0 liter engines. The settlement money will be used to establish a mitigation trust for specific NOx reducing actions, that will be administrated through a trustee - with allocations for state, territorial, and tribal government beneficiaries. Eligible mitigation actions will be focused on reducing NOx emissions from mobile sources of pollution, such as vehicles and vessels. The allocation of the settlement for tribes is $55 million. Once the court sets a trust effective date, likely for review and approval this month, all 567 federally recognized tribes in the U.S. will be eligible to apply for trust funds. Tribes will access the funds by submitting a beneficiary claim and mitigation plan to the trustee - Wilmington Trust. Appendix D2 of the consent decree details the 10 eligible mitigation actions and expenditures. One way tribes can access the funds is through the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act option, under EPA's competitive DERA Tribal Clean Diesel grant program. The DERA program funds diesel engine retrofits and/or replacement. Actions eligible under the DERA option include truck stop electrification (electrified parking spaces to eliminate long duration idling), fuel efficiency and idle reduction equipment, construction and agricultural equipment, smaller marine vessels, diesel generators and others. Tribes can begin planning mitigation actions for old diesel fleets. EPA staff are creating resources such as a VW DERA Option Fact Sheet, Timeline, and Guidelines for Tribes. The National Tribal Air Association is working to help tribes engage in the tribal portion of the settlement. The NTAA along with support from the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals formed a tribal work group to ensure fair and equitable treatment as the settlement process moves forward. The NTAA work group has held regular meetings to keep tribal representatives engaged with the U.S. Department of Justice and EPA, and to review steps to move forward. NTAA is organizing a one-day "hands on" VW settlement workshop on Monday, May 1 and a plenary session May 3 at the National Tribal Forum on Air Quality in Tucson, AZ. To learn more about NTAA's work on the VW settlement, visit their website at www.ntaatribalair.org. For more information on the VW settlement DERA Option for tribes, go to https://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/volkswagen-vw-settlement-dera-option. To learn more about the VW Settlement - including the consent decree, go to https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/volkswagen-clean-air-act-civil-settlement. CONTACT: Lucita Valiere • 206-553-8087 • valiere.lucita@epa.gov -3 ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 1. W Spring Cleaning Tips for Indoor Air Quality and Your Health When spring cleaning in and around your home, remember these tips that can protect your health and the air you breathe. Minimize your chance of being exposed to contaminants when cleaning out household hazardous wastes such as anti- freeze, certain glues or adhesives, used motor oil, pesticides, etc. Follow instructions carefully for use, storage and proper disposal as provided on product labels. Mo re than 650 household cleaning products meet the criteria for the Safer Choice label. Check out your options for Spring cleaning. n ur li >v SAFER CHOICE Meets US. EPA Safer Product Standards 2. 3. Minimize the use of products or practices that may cause harm to your family such as combining household hazardous wastes together which might react, ignite, explode or become unrecyclable. To learn more about HHW, go to https://www.epa.gov/hw/household-hazardous-waste-hhw. When purchasing cleaning products, look for EPA's Safer Choice label for those with safer chemical ingredients. For a list of Safer Choice products, go to https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice. 4. Increase ventilation before, during and immediately after cleaning. 5. Reduce asthma triggers by dusting and vacuuming your home. Common asthma triggers include pet dander, dust mites, mold and secondhand smoke. 6. Prevent mold by controlling moisture and keeping your home ventilated by opening win- dows and running an exhaust fan while cooking and bathing. 7. Test for radon by purchasing a home test kit or finding a measurement and mitigation professional. More information on radon is available at https://www.epa.gov/radon. 8. Keep your home and vehicle smoke-free. 9. Change the batteries in existing CO and smoke detectors. 10. Use and properly maintain your home's heating and cooling system, and heat recovery ventilator (HRV) if you have one. To learn more about indoor air quality and how to protect your health, go to https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq National Tribal Waste and Response Steering Committee DUE DATE: May 26: The National Tribal Waste and Response Steering Committee is seeking up to five individuals who work for federally-recognized tribes in the fields of soiid waste, Brownfields, Superfund, Underground Storage Tank, and/or emergency response to join the Steering Committee for the term starting November l, 2017 and ending October 31, 2019. This Committee plays several roles such as developing an annual priority document for EPA and the National Tribal Caucus, providing two-way communication between tribes and federal agencies, and collaborating with the institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals on the Tribal Lands and Environment Forum. To learn more about the Steering Committee, please visit http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Waste/waste_ntsc. ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 GAP Solid Waste Activity Charts EPA's American Indian Environmental Office developed three charts that outline GAP grant- funded allowable and unallowable solid waste program implementation activities. If your tribe or consortia is engaged in solid and hazardous waste management, you may want to review these charts when considering options. Updated in 2013, EPA's Guidance on the Award and Management of General Assistance Agreements for Tribes and Intertribal Consortia (a.k.a. the GAP Guidance) describes how EPA administers the Indian Environmental General Assistance Program. These charts outline solid and hazardous waste activities that are allowable and unallowable since the update to the GAP Guidance in 2013. • The first table shows activities that are allowable and will not end on 9/30/2020. • The second table shows solid and hazardous waste activities that will only be allowable through 9/30/2020, unless a replacement table is established prior to that date. • The third table provides examples of activities that are not allowable at any time. As with all funding decisions, EPA Project Officers will work with grant recipients to consider whether the costs of delivering solid waste and recovered materials services are reasonable and consistent with the recipient's program development goals. The complete charts are available online at http://go.usa.gov/xKSqw. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Alaska Operations Office ALASKA NEWS 7G Plan Development Workshop June 6-7, Anchorage, AK Participants will begin developing their tribal environmental plans during this workshop with technical assistance from Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium staff. To take this course, participants must have already attended a 7 Generations Environmental Planning Workshop within the last two years. This workshop is for tribal environmental program staff and other tribal staff who are responsible for their tribe's environmental plan. For more information, go to http://bit.ly/2pDyOwg. 7G Climate Change Adaptation Planning August 15-17, Anchorage, AK This workshop will introduce participants to a community-based approach to developing and implementing climate change adaptation plans. This training is best suited for tribal environmental leaders and staff working towards addressing climate change in their community. For more information, go to http://bit.ly/2p7ZdAQ. CONTACT: Oxcenia O'Domin • 907-729-3492 • orodomin@anthc.org Holly Reimer • 907-729-4043 • holly.reimer@anthc.org Links to web sites outside of EPA are provided for additional information that may be useful or interesting to our readers. We cannot attest to the accuracy of these third-party sites, nor does EPA endorse any nongovernment websites, companies or applications. -5 ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Qualifier Sampler Training (Water Quality and Soil Sampling) May 3-5, Dillingham, AK August 23-25, Anchorage, AK This training will cover taking water and soil samples to send for laboratory contaminant testing, how to test on-site for surface water fecal coliform, and how to sample and monitor for basic water quality parameters using a YSI probe and turbidity meter. Passing this course satisfies the State of Alaska training requirements to become a qualified sampler. Waste Utility Training June 13-14, Nome, AK Having trouble convincing your community to pay fees? Finding that your solid waste program starts and stops or doesn't seem to improve? This training will examine your solid waste management program as a utility operation, exploring the 10 management areas that contribute to effective and sustainable utility management. The training also includes developing a full solid waste management plan and budget and a community outreach strategy. Integrated Solid Waste Management Planning and Backhaul Training July 31-August 4, Anchorage, AK This in-depth training explores several topics needed to manage your solid waste program. Some of the training topics will include developing codes and ordinances, packaging and shipping recyclables, hazardous waste, e-waste, landfill problem solving, composting and solid waste funding. This training largely focuses on backhaul (collecting, storing, packaging, and shipping hazardous wastes). For information on the above trainings, go to http://www.zendergroup.org/sw.html. CONTACT: Simone Sebalo • 907-277-2111 • ssebalo@zendergroup.org. Kuskokwim River Watershed Rural Alaska Landfill Operator (RALO) & Backhaul Training May 8-12, Aniak, AK Junk vehicles, old electronics, fluorescent tubes, as well as other household hazardous wastes are a concern in many remote communities throughout Alaska. Successful backhaul efforts require a very intensive effort of training and planning. If your community plans to backhaul, you will need training and a "champion" to help ensure your community's local planning and implementation efforts are complete. This 5-day combined RALO and Backhaul training is provided at no cost and travel scholarships are available. Kuskokwim area tribes are encouraged to attend. The training is available to tribes statewide. For more information about RALO, go to http://www.cvent.eom/d/5vqk3v. CONTACT: Dave Cannon • 907-675-4705 • krwc.swwq@gmail.com 6- ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Titroduction to Rural Alaska Landfill Administration Online Training The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals is offering a free online training course for tribal environmental professionals in rural Alaska with an introduction to landfills, administration, and operations, solid waste administration, planning and budget basics, and resources for minimizing waste in landfills. To access the online Introduction to Rural Alaska Landfill Administration training, go to http://bit.ly/2liZRHA. Other online ITEP courses include Introduction to Brownfields, Brownfields Tribal Response Program Fundamentals, Radon Fundamentals, Quality Assurance Fundamentals, Building Performance: Improving IAQ, in Cold Climates, and Emissions Inventory Fundamentals. To access ail of ITEP's online training courses, go to http://itep.scholarlms.com/catalog. CONTACT: Jennifer Williams • 928-523-0673 • Jennifer.Williams@nau.edu. RTOC News The Region 10 Regional Tribal Operations Committee is a partnership between EPA and elected tribal representatives to further tribal environmental objectives at the regional level, serve as a liaison between the EPA and tribes regarding information exchange, and provide assistance to the National Tribal Operations Committee. Stay in the Loop! RTOC posts meeting minutes online at http://regionlOrtoc.net/index.php/meetings • Follow RTOC on Facebook for the latest news, training and funding opportunities from EPA at https://www.facebook.com/RegionlORTOC. • Submit meeting discussion topics at http://regionlOrtoc.net. • NOTE: Please bookmark the RTOC's new website at http://regionlOrtoc.net. Contact Randi Madison, RTOC RIO Communications Specialist 509-703-4219 • communications@regionlOrtoc.net if you wish to join our monthly teleconference and/or have environmental topics to raise. I ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 EPA Tribal Consultation Opportunities The following tribal consultation opportunities may be of interest to tribes in Region 10. A full list of consultation opportunities is available at https://tcots.epa.gov. Alaska's Revised Recreational Water Quality Criteria END DATE: May 5. On January 24, Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation submitted to EPA, revisions to state water quality standards for bacteria criteria upon primary human contact during recreation in marine and freshwater. These criteria are designed to protect people from exposure to fecal contamination when exposed to water during recreation. The criteria rely on the latest research and science, including studies that show a link between illness and fecal contamination in recreational waters. ADEC's revisions to protect primary contact recreation in marine and freshwater are consistent with EPA's 2012 Recreational Water Quality Criteria recommendations and also address the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act requirements for coastal waters in Alaska. CONTACT: Matthew Szelag • 907-271-1208 • szelag.matthew@epa.gov Memorandum of Understanding for Contaminated Sediment Sites END DATE: May 12. Contaminated sediment is a significant environmental problem that impairs the uses of many water bodies. It is often a contributing factor to fish consumption advisories issued nationwide. EPA's Superfund program uses its Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act authority, in collaboration with other Agency programs and authorities, to clean up sediment sites that present an unacceptable risk to human health and the environment. EPA is initiating consultation and coordination with federally-recognized tribes on draft sample language that could be used in Memoranda of Understanding between EPA's Regions, tribes and/or states at contaminated sediment Superfund sites. The draft MOU would serve as a starting point to improve collaboration, communication and coordination with tribes and states across the cleanup and water programs at contaminated sediment Superfund sites. To view the draft sample MOU and the letter to tribal leaders initiating consultation and coordination, go to EPA's Tribal Consultation Opportunities web page at https://tcots.epa.gov and look under "Memorandum of Understanding for Contaminated Sediment Sites." To learn more about contaminated sediment sites and EPA's use of Superfund to remediate these sites, please visit https://www.epa.gov/superfund/superfund-contaminated-sediments. CONTACT: Anthony Austin • 303-312-6152 • austin.anthony@epa.gov Tribal Consultation Opportunities Continue ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 r> Continued EPA Tribal Consultation Opportunities FY 2018-2019 National Program Manager Guidance END DATE: June 30. The NPM Guidances provide direction to EPA Regions on where the Agency will focus its work with tribal and state governments to ensure implementation of and compliance with environmental laws and regulations. The NPM Guidances are not budget decision-making documents though they do provide a road map for the activities that support the priorities identified in the President's Budget. The NPM Guidances are developed in three stages: 1. NPMs receive input from tribes and states during the early engagement stage, which is now underway. 2. NPMs prepare draft guidances for review and comment. 3. NPMs issue final NPM Guidances. CONTACT: Emily Heller • 202-564-0000 • heller.emily@epa.gov Joseph Greenblott • 202-564-4250 • greenblott.joseph@epa.gov Notice of Extension - CERCLA 108(b) Proposed Rule for Hardrock Mining and Mineral Processing END DATE: July 11. EPA is proposing requirements under Section 108(b) of the CERCLA to establish financial responsibility for the hardrock mining industry. The Agency received correspondence from stakeholders requesting an extension to the public comment period for the proposed rule. EPA is committed to continuing its dialogue with federally- recognized tribes and has also extended the consultation period from March 13 to July 11. CONTACT: Barbara Foster • 703-308-7057 • foster.barbara@epa.gov Jessica Snyder • 202-564-1478 • snyder.jessica@epa.gov Grants HUD Indian Community Development Block Grant Program DUE DATE: May 18. The Indian Community Development Block Grant program provides grants for use in developing viable Indian and Alaska Native communities, including decent housing, a suitable living environment, and economic opportunities. All federally-recognized tribes and Alaska Native Villages are eligible to participate in the ICDBG program. Tribal organizations are also eligible applicants. Eligible categories of funding include housing rehabilitation, land acquisition to support new housing, home ownership assistance, public facilities and improvements, economic development, and microenterprise programs. To learn more and to view the ICDBG Notice of Funding Opportunity, go to https://go.usa.gov/x5kvE. ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 FY 2017 Hazardous Waste Management Grant for Tribes DUE DATE: May 18. EPA is accepting proposals from federally-recognized tribes or intertribal consortia for the development and implementation of hazardous waste programs and for building capacity to address hazardous waste management in Indian country To address hazardous waste management issues, EPA is responsible for implementing the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Subtitle C program. The RCRA Subtitle C program His a comprehensive effort to ensure that hazardous waste is managed safely from "cradle to grave" - from the moment it is generated, while it is transported, treated, or stored, until it is finally re-used or disposed in a safe manner. These grants must improve the applicant's ability to properly identify, manage, or dispose of hazardous waste. All hazardous waste management activities that address the RCRA Subtitle C "cradle to grave" approach are Kfl eligible. The total estimated funding available under this competitive opportunity is $297,000, subject to the availability of funds and quality of proposals received. EPA anticipates the award of up to three cooperative agreements whose maximum estimated value each shall not exceed $99,000 resulting from this competitive opportunity. For more information, go to https://go.usa.gov/x5kvQ. CONTACT: Gabriela Carvalho • 206-553-6698 • carvalho.gabriela@epa.gov FY 2017 and 2018 Tribal Wetland Program Development Grants DUE DATE: June 5. The goals of EPA's wetland program include increasing the quantity and quality of wetlands in the U.S. by conserving and restoring wetland acreage and improving wetland condition. In pursuing these goals, EPA seeks to increase the capacity of all levels of government as they continue to develop and refine effective, comprehensive programs for wetland protection and management. Wetland Program Development Grants assist state, tribal, local government agencies and interstate/intertribal entities in developing or refining state/tribal/local programs which protect, manage, and restore wetlands. The primary focus of these grants is to develop/ refine state or tribal wetland programs. In this Request for Proposals, EPA is soliciting proposals from eligible applicants to develop or refine tribal wetland programs as described in Section I, Funding Opportunity Description. There will be two separate tracks for eligible applicants. Tribes can apply under Track One and Track Two. Intertribal consortia may only apply under Track Two. Applicants may submit more than one proposal under this RFP, based on eligibility for the applicable track(s). Each proposal must be separately submitted for a different project, and will be evaluated individually. EPA anticipates awarding approximately $1,851,300 in federal funds under Track One and approximately $793,500 in federal funds under Track Two. Individual awards will likely range from $25,000 to $300,000. For details, go to https://go.usa.gov/x5kvy. CONTACT: Myra Price • 202-566-1225 • price.myra@epa.gov 10- ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Clean Diesel Grant DUE DATE: June 20. EPA is pleased to announce the release of the 2017 Diesel Emissions Reductions Act grant funding Request for Proposals. There is $11 million in competitive grant funds available under the DERA Clean Diesel National Funding Assistance Program. The program is soliciting proposals nationwide for projects that achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions in terms of tons of pollution produced and exposure, particularly from fleets operating in designated poor air quality areas. Eligible entities include regional, state, iocal or tribai agencies/consortia or port authorities with jurisdiction over transportation or air quality, non-profit organizations or institutions that represent or provide pollution reduction or educational services to persons or organizations that own or operate diesel fleets or have the promotion of transportation or air quality as their principal purpose. School districts, municipalities, metropolitan planning organizations, cities and counties are all eligible to the extent that they fall within the definition above. Two informational webinars will be offered. • May 2 at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time. To join the webinar, go to https://epawebconferencing.acms.com/dera2017rfpl For audio, call 866-299-3188 and enter conference code 343914#. • May 9 at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time. To join the webinar, go to https://epawebconferencing.acms.com/dera2017rfp2 For audio, cail 866-299-3188 and enter conference code 343914#. EPA anticipates releasing a similar RFP specific to tribes and tribal organizations this June. More information on the clean diesel national grants can be found online at https://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/clean-diesel-national-grants. ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge DUE DATE: November 22. Six federal agencies have announced a Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge in order to find an accurate, lower-cost, and low-maintenance air quality monitoring system that can be used during a wildfire or controlled fire. The data provided by the sensor system will help federal, state, local and tribal agencies protect the health of first responders and communities affected by smoke. Developers are encouraged to submit a prototype sensor system that measures fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, ozone and carbon dioxide. The system should be capable of rapid deployment and continuous real-time monitoring of highly dynamic air pollution levels during a fire event. Developers should also aim for designs that are easy to use and self-powered, include location data and wirelessly transmit data to a central data-receiving station. Written submissions are due by November 22 and prototypes must be submitted by January 5, 2018. The Challenge total award pool is $60,000, which may be awarded in total to one winner if all the requirements are met, or divided into several partial awards. The sponsors of the Sensors Challenge are the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, EPA, U.S. Forest Service, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and National Park Service. The non-profit organization, Tall Timbers Research Station, is also a partner. An informational webinar will be held May 8 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. To join the webinar, call 1-866-299-3188, enter conference code 919-541-1894, and go to http://epawebconferencing.acms.com/wildlandfire. To learn more about this opportunity, go to www.challenge.gov/challenge/wildland-fire-sensors-challenge. 12- ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Training & Scholarships National Tribal Forum on Air Quality May 1-4, Tucson, AZ The National Tribal Forum on Air Quality provides environmental professionals from tribes, EPA, and other organizations an opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, and discuss current policies, regulatory initiatives, technical and outreach topics on air quality The conference is coordinated by ITEP and the National Tribal Air Association through funding from EPA. For more information, go to https://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/ntaa/NTF/ntf2017. (¦ \ Environmental Information Exchange Network National Meeting May 16-18, Philadelphia, PA The Environmental Information Exchange Network is an internet-based system used by state, tribal and territorial partners to securely share environmental and health information with one another and EPA. The theme for the EN2017 national meeting is "Innovation and Partnership." During the meeting, we will be exploring examples of how: • Innovation can cross federal, state, territorial, and tribal boundaries. • Working creatively together as partners can identify innovative solutions. • Partnerships are the new "best practice". • We can all employ innovation in our daily work. ITEP will provide a limited number of travel scholarships to eligible individuals representing federally-recognized tribes and/or eligible tribal organizations. To request a scholarship, please contact Lydia Scheer at lydia.scheer@nau.edu. For more information on EN2017, go to http://www.exchangenetwork.net/en2017. V J Tribal Lands and Environment Forum August 14-17, Tulsa, OK This year's Tribal Lands and Environment Forum will feature trainings, field trips, and breakout sessions focused on solid/hazardous waste management, Brownfields, Underground Storage Tanks/Leaking Underground Storage Tanks, Superfund sites, and emergency response. Tribal water program topics will include breakout sessions, trainings, and field trips related to water quality, drinking water, and habitat restoration (including wetlands, streams, and fisheries). Registration for the event is open. For those interested in presenting either during a breakout or training session, proposals will be accepted until May 12. For more information and to register, go to http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Conferences/confr_tlef. CONTACT: Todd Barnell • 928-523-3840 • todd.barnell@nau.edu Julie Jurkowski • 928-523-9404 • Julie.jurkowski@nau.edu -13 ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 EPA Tribal Solid Waste Peer Matching Program EPA has developed a tribal solid waste management peer matching program. The program aims to strengthen tribal capacity building and develop sustainable waste management programs. The program identifies peer matches for tribes through the use of peer mentors who are working on similar issues to exchange experiences and share practical knowledge with each other. Peer mentors are tribal environmental personnel who can provide expertise and experience. Mentors volunteer to participate in the program. Please note that the peer matching program does not have funding available to cover any associated costs (i.e., travel to meet with a mentor). However, funding for travel for peer matches may be available through the Indian Environmental General Assistance Program or other programs. For details, click on the fact sheet link at http://go.usa.gov/xDwz4. CONTACT: Tonya Hawkins • 703-308-8278 • hawkins.tonya@epa.gov c Climate Change Climate Change and Health Fact Sheets EPA has prepared several fact sheets regarding climate change as it relates to different stages of life and for certain populations of concern like children, pregnant women, indigenous populations and people with health conditions. To access the fact sheets online, go to https://www.epa.gov/climate-impacts/climate-change-and-health-factsheets. Climate Change Webinars, Conferences and Trainings For a calendar of climate change and water-related trainings, conferences and webinars, visit: http://go.usa.gov/xg84F. 14 - ------- Region 10 Tribal Newsletter May 2017 Calendar of Events May 1-4 National Tribal Forum on Air Quality. Tucson, AZ. • http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Conferences/confr_ntf 2 DERA Clean Diesel Grant. Informational Webinar at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time. To join the webinar, go to https://epawebconferencing.acms.com/dera2017rfpl. For audio, call 866-299-3188 and enter conference code 343914#. 1-5 Air Quality Awareness Week - Be Air Aware. • https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/airaware 3 Alaska Solid Waste Teleconference. 1:30 p.m. Alaska Time. • http://bit.ly/2oeqZs4 3-5 Qualified Sampler Training (Water Quality and Soil Sampling Training). Dillingham, AK. • http://www.zendergroup.org/sw.html 8 Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge. Informational webinar at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Call 1-866-299-3188, enter conference code 919-541-1894 and go to http://epawebconferencing.acms.com/wildlandfire 8-12 Rural Alaska Landfill Operator (RALO)/Community Waste Backhaul Training. Aniak, AK • http://www.cvent.eom/d/5vqk3v 9 DERA Clean Diesel Grant. Informational Webinar at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time. • To join the webinar, go to https://epawebconferencing.acms.com/dera2017rfp2. For audio, call 866-299-3188 and enter conference code 343914 16 - 18 Exchange Network 2017 National Meeting. Philadelphia, PA. • http://www.exchangenetwork.net/en2017 24 Alaska Regional Response Team Meeting. Sitka, AK. • http://alaskarrt.org June 6-7 7G Plan Development Workshop. Anchorage, AK. • http://bit.ly/7pDynwg 7 Alaska Solid Waste Teleconference. 1:30 p.m. Alaska Time. • http://bit.ly/2oeqZs4 13 - 14 Waste Utility Training. Nome, AK. • http://www.zendergroup.org/sw.html 20 - 22 RTOC In-Person Meeting. Juneau, AK. • http://regionlOrtoc.net/meetings July 20 RTOC Teleconference. 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time. • http://regionlOrtoc.net/meetings/ 31 - Aug. 4 Integrated Solid Waste Management Planning and Backhaul Training. Anchorage, AK. • http://www.zendergroup.org/sw.html August 14 - 17 Tribal Lands and Environment Forum. Tulsa, OK. • https://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Conferences/confr_tlef 15 - 17 7G Climate Change Adaptation Planning. Anchorage, AK. • http://bit.ly/2p7ZdAQ 17 - RTOC Teleconference. 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time. • http://regionlOrtoc.net/meetings 23 - 25 Qualified Sampler Training (Water Quality and Soil Sampling Training). Anchorage, AK • http://www.zendergroup.org/sw.html Links to websites outside of EPA are provided for additional information that may be useful or interesting to our readers. We cannot attest to the accuracy of these third-party sites, nor does EPA endorse any nongovernment websites, companies or applications. -15 ------- Region 10 Tribal Staff Vol. 26 No. 5-May 2017 &EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency REGION 10 TRIBAL PROGRAM 1200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, RAD-202 Seattle, WA 98101-3140 ^ Got News? The Region 10 Tribal Newsletter invites you, our readers, to submit ideas and articles for consideration and to share your successes and challenges. Photographs are also welcome as separate files in jpeg or other graphic format. Please submit articles and pictures to: Don Creek EPA, 805 SW Broadway, Suite 500 Portland, Oregon 97205 0) 503-326-5015 ^0 email creek.don@epa.gov Helpful Links R10 Tribal Programs: http://go.usa.gov/xkdMv EPA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPARegionlO Follow us @EPAnorthwest on Twitter! https://twitter.com/EPAnorthwest EPA Region 10 Tribal Trust and Assistance Unit Staff Stacy Murphy, Unit Manager 206-553-2116 ALASKA Todd Bender, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-0344 Katherine Brown, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-7263 Susan Conbere, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-6243 Michelle Davis, Tribal Coordinator 907-271-3434 Sherry Davis, Tribal Coordinator 907-271-6322 Santina Gay, Tribal Coordinator 907-271-3413 JR Herbst, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-2116 Nica Klaber, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-2570 Mahri Lowinger, Tribal Coordinator 907-271-6334 Michael Ortiz, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-6234 Neverley Shoemake, Tribal Coordinator 907-271-3206 Cathy Villa, Tribal Coordinator 907-271-1270 IDAHO, EASTERN & CENTRAL WASHINGTON, AND EASTERN OREGON Jim Zokan, Tribal Coordinator 208-378-5691 WESTERN & CENTRAL OREGON, SOUTHWEST WASH Kristine Carre, Tribal Coordinator 503-326-7024 Don Creek, SEE 503-326-5015 NORTHWEST WASHINGTON Westley Foster, Tribal Coordinator 206-553-1604 Alan Moomaw, Tribal Coordinator 360-753-8071 Report Spills and Accidents Note these emergency numbers to call in the event OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILLS OR ACCIDENTS: Alaska 800-478-9300 Idaho 800-632-8000 Oregon 800-452-0311 Washington 800-258-5990 National (EPA) 800-424-8802 Environmental (Violations/ To report environmental violation tips and Complaints to the EPA: www.epa .gov/ti ps. ------- |