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Announcements

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Click here for Tribal Air MailFind out about events and news of interest to those who live and work in Indian Country, including upcoming training, conferences, workshops and the latest TribalAIR news.
If you have a Tribal announcement not listed on this page, please use the Contact Us link, located at the top and bottom of the page, to submit your announcement.

10/27/04

FY 2005 Exchange Network Grant Program Solicitation Notice

EPA's Office of Environmental Information (OEI) sponsors the Exchange Network Grant Program to provide funding to states, territories, federally recognized Indian tribes, and tribal consortia to support the development of the Environmental Information Exchange Network. The Exchange Network is an Internet- and standards-based, secure information network that supports the electronic collection, exchange, and integration of high-quality data. Funding for the grant program has been provided through annual congressional appropriations for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The solicitation for 2005 grants can be accessed at http://www.epa.gov/Networkg/.

To date, 40 tribes have received one of these grants. To read about tribes that have submitted successful proposals, please visit http://www.epa.gov/Networkg/tribal/. For example, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community received a $48,000 grant to develop a Network Assessment Plan and a Network Management and Development Plan. The purpose of this plan is to streamline the Community's e-commerce exchange capacity to provide real-time environmental data and information to the Community government and Community members. The goal of the proposal is to enhance the reporting of data and information concerning compliance, monitoring, surveys and permitting requirements and integrating such data and information with a GIS component. In another example, the St. Regis Band of Mohawk Indians (SRMT) received $100,000 to focus on advancing the SRMT's ability to participate in the Exchange Network by improving the quality and quantity of environmental information submitted or made available to EPA, the public, other agencies, and other tribes. These goals are accomplished by adding equipment, software, services, and personnel.


10/25/04

Exchange Network Grant Program Solicitation Notice

The EPA's Office of Environmental Information (OEI) sponsors the Exchange Network Grant Program to provide funding to states, territories, and Federally Recognized Indian tribes to support the development of the Environmental Information Exchange Network. The Exchange Network is an Internet- and standards-based, secure information systems network that supports the electronic collection, exchange, and integration of high-quality data. Funding for the grant program has been provided through annual congressional appropriations for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The solicitation for 2005 grants can be accessed at http://www.epa.gov/Networkg/ .

To date, 29 Tribes have received one of these grants. To read about proposals from Tribes who have submitted successful proposals, please visit http://www.epa.gov/Networkg/tribal/ . For example, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community received a $48,000 grant to develop a Network Assessment Plan and a Network Management and Development Plan. This purpose of this plan is to streamline the Community's e-commerce exchange capacity to provide real-time environmental data and information to the Community government and Community members. The goal of the proposal is to enhance the reporting of data and information concerning issues of compliance, monitoring, surveys and permitting requirements and integrating such data and information with a GIS component. In another example, the St. Regis Band of Mohawk Indians (SRMT) received $100,000 to focus on advancing the SRMT's ability to participate on the network by improving the quality and quantity of environmental information flowed to the USEPA, the public, other agencies and other Tribes. These goals are accomplished by a combination of adding equipment, software, services and personnel.


10/18/04

Call For Presenters, 2005 Community Involvement Conference and Training -- Building Bridges Through Strong Partnerships, July 12-15, 2005

At the 2005 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Community Involvement Conference and Training, to be held in Buffalo, New York, we plan to explore experiences and opportunities for “building bridges through strong partnerships.” The emphasis for the 2005 conference is on building stronger, more productive community partnerships between both EPA and community groups, and EPA and its local, state, federal and tribal stakeholders. In doing so, we can help meet our common goal of providing safe and clean communities in which to live, work, and play. The 2005 conference will create a unique opportunity for a wide array of stakeholders to come together to share how EPA and its partners are involving communities in the protection of our air, water and land. We will share and learn about our respective challenges and needs, and strengthen the partnerships that are so critical for success in achieving environmental and quality-of-life goals. About the Conference

Who Should Attend:

This annual conference is designed for EPA staff and their partners who plan and implement community involvement, partnership, stewardship, outreach and education programs. We expect over 400 people to attend the conference.

Structure:

The conference is held over four days and includes about 40 concurrent sessions (90 minutes each), 14 open time presentation/discussion sessions (50-minutes each), and six to ten four- or eight-hour training sessions. All training sessions are held on the last two days of the conference. The conference also includes three plenary sessions with keynote presentations, two poster sessions, several field trips, evening social activities and an exhibit room.

Read the full announcement (804 KB 8p., PDF) .


10/12/04

IT’S NOT TOO LATE – REGISTER TODAY
2004 DOE Tribal Energy Program Review Meeting
October 18 - 21, 2004
Golden, Colorado

To: Tribes Interested in Renewable Energy

You are invited to attend DOE’s Tribal Energy Program Review the week of October 18th in Golden, Colorado. Come hear forty-five (45) Tribes share their experiences, challenges and successes in their pursuit of energy diversity and sufficiency - Come share in their accomplishments and meet other Tribes pursuing renewable energy. See the attached agenda for a list of tribal projects and invited Tribes.

To ensure adequate facilities, we are asking you to register by October 1st (see registration form attached). A fee of $100 is being requested to defray the cost of food. Hotel information and directions from the Denver International Airport are attached.

As we recognize the increasing interest of tribes in renewable energy and the benefit of Tribes learning from Tribes, we’re opening up this meeting to Indian Country, as a whole. Please feel free to forward this invitation to other Tribes who may be interested in attending.

This is your opportunity to share with other Tribes exploring renewable energy – and accelerate energy development for all of Indian Country.

Agenda (115KB 6pp., PDF)
Registration Form (103KB 1p., PDF)
Hotel and Directions (63KB 1p., PDF)


10/12/04

You’re Invited to Participate in the 7TH National Tribal Conference on Environmental Management

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) is pleased to invite you to participate in the 7th National Tribal Conference on Environmental Management (NTCEM) in Traverse City, Michigan June 7 - 10, 2005. The NTCEM is being held at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, owned by GTB.

The NTCEM is one of the premier environmental events in Indian Country. With approximately 1000 people expected, the conference provides an opportunity for tribal leaders, tribal environmental managers, tribal scientists, tribal organizations, federal agencies, and other interested entities to share information about tribal environmental programs, and discuss issues of vital interest to Indian country.

Read the full announcement (58KB 1p., PDF)


10/07/04

Emission Inventory Assessment Readied for NARSTO Review

NARSTO’s Emission Inventory Assessment has progressed through numerous preliminary drafts and is available for review by the NARSTO community.

Motivated by recommendations in NARSTO’s PM and Ozone Assessments as well as by findings from the October 2003 Emission Inventory Workshop in Austin, this Assessment’s primary goals are to set the stage for future inventory development, as well to facilitate efficient and reliable inventory application for atmospheric-process evaluation and for pollution management. Intended for a diverse audience of planners, policy makers, and scientists, the Assessment provides a staged presentation, which:

  • describes a “vision,” in the form of a desired future state of emission-inventory science and applications;
  • provides a location and access resource for all important, currently existing North American inventories;
  • analyzes deficiencies and uncertainties in current inventories;
  • establishes the foundations of a rigorous approach to quantifying and reporting uncertainties in emission estimates;
  • describes evolving measurement and interpretive technologies, which are potentially applicable for future emission-inventory development and/or verification; and
  • outlines findings and recommendations for advancing from the present state of emission-inventory development to the visionary state described above.

This Assessment’s review schedule will be similar to those of the earlier NARSTO documents. The current draft is intended primarily for review by members of the NARSTO community; but comments are welcome from any interested individual, regardless of their NARSTO affiliation. These comments, which should be sent electronically to Diane Fleshman (diane@owt.com), will be compiled and used to prepare a subsequent draft, which will be subjected to an extended review by a smaller number of selected, independent scientists. The resulting comments will be processed into a final draft, which will be published as a NARSTO document subsequent to approval by the Executive Assembly.

The current Assessment draft is available for download on the NARSTO Web site as of October 1. This version contains essentially all of the technical material intended by its authors; but in anticipation of downstream changes in response to reviewer comments it is currently in a reasonably “drafty” state, which does not include niceties such as an executive summary. Based on past experience with the PM and Ozone Assessments, we anticipate substantial modifications to occur as a result of the review process.

As noted above, we will welcome review comments by any and all interested individuals. Comments for this review stage are due by October 29. The document, “Improving Emission Inventories for Effective Air-Quality Management Across North America,” can be downloaded from http://www.cgenv.com/narsto/. Exit EPA disclaimer


10/01/04

Tribal Air News: October 2004

The October newsletter is out!

Read the October Newsletter (227KB 10pp., PDF)


09/28/04

Toyota Retrofit SEP Announced

$20 Million Available for School Bus Retrofit/Refueling Projects (September 23, 2004) – EPA has released $20 million for Supplemental Environmental Programs (SEPs) under a consent decree signed with Toyota. The Toyota SEP is designed to reduce diesel emissions from in-service fleet vehicles, including increased availability of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel. Funding will be available to school districts for school bus retrofit projects and to increase availability and use of ULSD fuel. This is not a grant program; awards will be made using a lottery-type process. Next week, Toyota will notify every school district in the country about the availability of funds. The mailing will also go to state and trade organizations, and other interested parties that have previously expressed interest in the program.

Tribes might want to visit the Web site and express interest. Interested parties have until November 12 to register to be considered for a project. http://www.cleanbusesforkids.com/ Exit EPA disclaimer

For more information, please contact: Rebecca White or Darrel Harmon.


09/17/04

Additional Grant Program Eligible for PPGs

MEMORANDUM:

TO: State Environmental Commissioners

FROM: Dona DeLeon /s/
Deputy Associate Administrator for Intergovernmental Relations

SUBJECT: Performance Partnership Grant Implementation Updates

I am pleased to forward to you the attached Federal Register notice that adds three additional categorical grants to the list of sixteen that states can include in their Performance Partnership Grants (PPG). The newly eligible grants are the Brownfields grant (CERCLA Sec. 128), the Environmental Information Exchange Network grant, and the Multimedia Sector grant.

We are aware of several states that plan to add at least one of the newly eligible grants to their PPGs, and hope all states will consider doing so. While almost 40% of PPG eligible categorical grant funds are managed in PPGs, the balance continues to be awarded as categorical grants. We look forward to working with you to promote the greater use of PPGs as an outcome-focused grants management tool.

As follow-up to the series of PPG training conducted last year for state and EPA staff, I am pleased to report that five additional state environmental agencies applied for PPGs, bringing the total number of state environment agencies with PPGs to 37. To keep the momentum moving forward, we are preparing a PPG Best Practices Guide to help state and EPA staff develop and implement PPGs. Our goal is to develop this product jointly with the states to ensure it reflects the best practices around the country and addresses the full range of issues that can affect the success of a PPG. In addition, we are very interested in re-engaging the EPA-State Grant Workgroup to jointly address remaining state grant and PPG policy and implementation issues. Steve Higley of Utah and Jack Bowles of my staff have begun discussing a workgroup charter, issues to be addressed, and potential membership. We will work with the ECOS Planning Committee to coordinate state participation on the PPG Best Practices Guide and to define the next steps for the State Grant Workgroup.

Thank you for your leadership and continued commitment to advance PPGs. I look forward to seeing you all at the ECOS meeting in Oklahoma City on October 3-5.

Dona DeLeon
Deputy Associate Administrator for Intergovernmental Relations
US Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, D.C. 20460
(202) 564-7178

Read the attachment (829KB 2pp. PDF)   


09/09/04

New Hires in OAQPS/AQSSD/HEEG

The Health and Ecosystem Effects Group (HEEG) of the Air Quality Strategies and Standards Division (AQSSD), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) located in Research Triangle Park (RTP), NC is currently advertising for two Biologist/Ecologist positions (GS-12/13). These vacancy announcements have been posted on EZ Hire at http://www.epa.gov/ezhire/ and on the Office of Personnel Management web site, USA JOBS at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov Exit EPA disclaimer under the following numbers:

    RTP-DE-2004-0110 Biologist/Ecologist, GS-0401/0408-12
    RTP-DE-2004-0110 Biologist/Ecologist, GS-0401/0408-13

    RTP-MP-2004-0199 Biologist/Ecologist, GS-0401/0408-12
    RTP-MP-2004-0199 Biologist/Ecologist, GS-0401/0408-13

Under DE, the vacancy announcements are open to all U.S. citizens.

Under MP, the vacancy announcements are open to all current or former Federal employees with permanent competitive status; or individuals with disabilities and other individuals eligible for special appointing authorities; or veterans who are preference eligible, or who have separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions after 3 years or more of continuous active service. Commissioned Corps Officers are encouraged to apply.

Please circulate this information to individuals in your organization and anyone else who may be interested in applying for this position.

Opening Date: September 09, 2004
Closing Date: September 29, 2004


09/03/04

New APTI Course: Sources and Control of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Air Pollutants

The four day lecture course in VOCs prepares the student to evaluate techniques typically used to control volatile organic emissions from industrial sources.

Date: September 22, 23, 29 & 30, 2004
Time: 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Location: EPA Room E301

Registration Information: You must pre register for this course (T-482-04) before September 8, 2004 at the Air Pollution Training Institute (APTI) at: http://www.epa.gov/air/oaqps/eog/

Please contact Linda D. Adams at (919) 541-1424 for more information.


arrow08/30/04

The National Tribal Air Association’s (NTAA) Third Annual National Conference

Dear Environmental Protection Agency’s Tribal Air Regional Coordinators:

The National Tribal Air Association’s (NTAA) third annual national conference, with a theme of “Our Sacred Breath”, will be held October 5-7 at the Agua Caliente Tribe’s Spa/Casino/Resort in Palm Springs, California. We, the Executive Committee members of NTAA, personally invite you to join us, tribal leaders, tribal air quality and environmental staff, and others to showcase our achievements and formulate our ideas for a national agenda on tribal air quality issues.

The mission of the NTAA is to collectively advance air quality management policies and programs, consistent with the needs, interests, and unique legal status of American Indian tribes, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians, and the Executive Committee has worked diligently to create an agenda which focuses on the issues, concerns, and successes which tribal air programs have faced in the past year. We have selected six main topics to be discussed over the two and a half days, which are:

    1. “Policy updates and the policy process—effectively engaging tribes in the process”,
    2. “Climate Change, including National Carbon Offset Program”,
    3. “Alternatives, including solar, wind, biomass, and bio-diesel”,
    4. “Air Toxics, including mercury, fluoride, and radionuclide”,
    5. “Risk Assessment and modeling”, and
    6. “Indoor Air Quality”.

Registration will be available online. Please check the NTAA’s Web page at www.ntec.org Exit EPA disclaimer for updates and the link to the registration page. Registration, which is limited to 125 participants, will be $30 per person for non-tribal entities. A sliding scale registration fee has been arranged for tribal members, tribal employees and tribal organizations. The first person of a tribal organization will be charged a fee of $30, the second person of the same organization will be charged $20, and all additional persons from the same tribal entity will be charged $10. A room block has been set-aside at the conference location. This room block is under “NTAA” and is held until September 10, 2004. Information about lodging is on our web page.

If you have any questions or would like more information about the conference, please feel free to contact J. Stephen Hartsfield, NTAA Operations Coordinator, at (505) 242-2175 ext. 106 or shartsfield@ntec.org.

Respectfully,

Angela Benedict-Dunn
NTAA Executive Committee Chair


arrow08/24/04

CALL FOR PAPERS - Emission Inventory Conference April 11 - 14, 2005

Fourteenth International Emission Inventory Conference:

    "Transforming Emission Inventories - Meeting Future Challenges Today"

Call For Papers

The Emission Factor and Inventory Group and the Emission Inventory Improvement Program (EIIP) are cosponsoring the fourteenth annual emission inventory conference entitled "Transforming Emission Inventories - Meeting Future Challenges Today" to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, April 11 - 14, 2005 at the Riviera Hotel. This year, the conference will focus on changes needed in the inventory world to foster the development of timely emissions data.

The technical program committee is interested in papers that describe the application of new technologies for characterizing and inventorying air pollutant emissions, including emissions related to fine particulate matter, regional haze, air toxics, ozone, and climate change. Of particular interest are papers concerning:

    • Procedures and guidance on the development and appropriate application of emissions factors;
    • Applied new proof-of-concept technologies for air emissions estimation;
    • Systemized approaches for data analysis and quality assurance;
    • Data management challenges such as data standards, EI system integration, and GIS system-automated solutions for EI analyses;
    • Refinement of toxic pollutant stationary and mobile source EIs; and
    • Tools and techniques to accelerate the development of emission inventories (e.g., Web-based tools for facilities to report emission inventory data).

This conference will provide a useful forum for exchange of ideas and information on the use of emission data between industry, the U.S. EPA and other federal agencies, state/local/tribal governments, regional planning organizations, and international agencies. Papers will be presented from the following topic areas:

  • Air Toxics
  • Fugitive Dust
  • PM Fine
  • Area Sources
  • Mobile Sources
  • Ammonia
  • Emission Factors
  • Point Sources
  • Managed Burning and Wildland Fires
  • Greenhouse Gases
  • Tribal Emission Inventories
  • Regional Planning Organizations
  • EI Preparation for Modeling
  • EI Validation/Quality Assurance
  • Data Management Systems
  • Better & Faster EI Development Methods
  • Uncertainty
  • Platform and poster presentations are invited. Send (by email, mail, or fax) a 200-400 word abstract by October 15, 2004 to Sally Dombrowski of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, OAQPS/EMAD, D205-01, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, Tel: (919) 541-3269, Fax: (919) 541-0684, email: dombrowski.sally@epa.gov.

    Include a complete mailing address, telephone and fax numbers, E-mail address, an indication if platform or poster is preferred, and choice of session(s). Unless otherwise noted, we will assume the first author listed to be the primary author and the main contact for conference correspondence.

    For those who need to do travel planning, rooms will be a the prevailing government rate (currently $79.00 + tax). Registration will be approximately $125.00. Registration should be available in November, 2004.

    Sally Dombrowski
    U. S. EPA
    Emission Factor and Inventory Group
    (919) 541-3269
    FAX: (919) 541-0684

    Mailing Address:
    US EPA OAQPS (D205-01)
    RTP, NC 27711

    Courier Shipping Address:
    US EPA OAQPS (D205-01)
    4930 Old Page Rd
    RTP, NC 27709


    arrow08/23/04

    Job Opportunities in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina

    The Health and Ecosystem Effects Group (HEEG) of the Air Quality Strategies and Standards Division (AQSSD), Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) located in Research Triangle Park (RTP), NC is currently advertising two Physical Scientist positions (GS-1301 12/13). Qualified applicants include those with education/experience in the biological sciences and ecology. These vacancy announcements have been posted on EZ Hire at http://www.epa.gov/ezhire/ and on the Office of Personnel Management Web site, USA JOBS at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov Exit EPA disclaimer under the following numbers:

    RTP-DE-2004-0106 Physical Scientist, GS-1301-12
    RTP-DE-2004-0106 Physical Scientist, GS-1301-13

    RTP-MP-2004-0184 Physical Scientist, GS-1301-12
    RTP-MP-2004-0184 Physical Scientist, GS-1301-13

    Under DE, the vacancy announcements are open to all U.S. citizens.

    Under MP, the vacancy announcements are open to all current or former Federal employees with permanent competitive status; or individuals with disabilities and other individuals eligible for special appointing authorities; or veterans who are preference eligibles, or who have separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions after 3 years or more of continuous active service. Commissioned Corps Officers are encouraged to apply.

    Please circulate this information to individuals in your organization and anyone else who may be interested in applying for this position.

    Opening Date: August 20, 2004
    Closing Date: September 10, 2004


    arrow08/23/04

    Climate Protection Awards nominations due by October 15, 2004

    Who is eligible to be considered for the Climate Protection Awards?

    • Candidates may be from anywhere in the world.
    • Individuals and organizations may work for the public or private sector.
    • Candidates may be either self-nominated or nominated by a third party.

    What are the Award selection criteria?
    Applicants must excel in one or more of the following criteria:

    • Originality and public purpose;
    • Leadership and corporate responsibility;
    • Global perspective and implication;
    • Reduction of greenhouse-gas emissions.

    An international panel of judges including past award winners and experts in government, industry, and non-governmental organizations reviews recommendations; EPA makes the final award selections.

    How do I nominate someone for a Climate Protection Award?

    EPA is now accepting nominations for the 2005 International Climate Protection Awards. Nominations are due October 15.

    2005 Climate Award Nomination Form

    For more information, contact Kristen Taddonio at taddonio.kristen@epa.gov or go to http://www.epa.gov/cpd/awards/climproawards.htm.


    arrow08/16/04

    States/Localities/Tribes Invited to Compete for Two $25K Grants for Innovative Initiatives for Improving Air Quality (August 10, 2004)

    At EPA’s Air Innovations Conference in Chicago, the agency announced the availability of two $25,000 grants, to be awarded on a competitive basis to the state, local or Tribal air pollution control programs with the most innovative initiative or measure for improving air quality. According to EPA, the purpose of this funding is “to foster thinking about creative ways that local agencies could reduce air pollution.” The grant is intended to help kick off a new project or evaluate or improve an on-going project. The deadline for submitting applications to EPA is September 10, 2004. Applications will be evaluated and recipients selected based on novelty, effectiveness, significance, transferability, multi-pollutant coverage and collaboration. The two winners will be notified by October 15, 2004. Although grant applications must be limited to two pages, EPA has indicated that selected recipients may be required to submit a full grant application. [For further information contact Kimber Scavo at scavo.kimber@epa.gov or David Solomon at solomon.david@epa.gov (regarding the EPA grant project) or Gail Whitfield at whitfield.gail@epa.gov (regarding the grant process)].


    arrow08/16/04

    Air Pollution Distance Learning Network (APDLN)
    August, September, and October 2004 Telecourse Schedule

    August 5, 2004

    12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. E.T.

    W-009-04 View by Webcast Only
    Recognition of Illness with Chemical Exposure

    (CDC, Public Health Training Network Webcast)
    (Third Party Webcast)

    August 26, 2004

    1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. E.T.

    T-008-04 Lessons Learned in Assessing Indirect & Cumulative Impacts of Transportation Projects
    (CTE in cooperation with FHWA, National Teleconference Series, NC State University, Third Party Broadcast)
    (Test Pattern 12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.)

    September 22, 23, 29 & 30, 2004

    12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. E.T.

    T-482-04 Sources and Control of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) CLN: 1534
    (Newly Revised July 2004)
    (Test Pattern 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.)

    October 28, 2004

    1:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. E.T.

    T-009-04 Air Quality Kits to Go,
    Asthma Series (3-12), An Outreach Training Resource
    (Test Pattern 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.)

    See the entire Telecourse Schedule.


    arrow08/10/04

    Indoor Air Quality

    Smoke-free Homes for American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) Head Start and Early Head Start Families

    ORIA is planning an exhibit and workshop at the 2nd annual American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) Program Branch National Conference during September 22 – 25, 2004. The conference site is the Grand Hyatt Washington Hotel. It will bring together more than 500 participants consisting of teachers, assistant teachers, home visitors, education managers, and directors representing Head Start and Early Head Start Programs from the AI/AN Program Branch. They will gather for three days to enhance their skills in various areas, including early childhood education, literacy, and child outcomes. An interactive Smoke-free Homes workshop will provide participants with an opportunity to come together to learn about the EPA and Head Start Bureau’s partnership and materials to make homes and cars smoke-free. The exhibit and workshop will offer specific strategies that staff and parents can employ to promote the program and materials on a local level.


    arrow08/02/04

    Tribal Stakeholder Meeting on Indoor Air Pollution
    from Cooking and Heating Devices in Tribal Communities
    [August 18-19, 2004 in Seattle, Washington]

    The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in collaboration with Portage Environmental and the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP) is conducting a stakeholder conference on Indoor Air Pollution from Cooking and Heating Devices in Tribal Communities. You are invited to participate in this important conference to share ideas and information with other tribes, as well as representatives of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).

    Structure and Approach:
    The primary purpose of the stakeholder meeting is to obtain input from Tribal communities that will enhance future planning efforts by the USEPA. Participants will have the opportunity to contribute to this effort in various discussion sessions of the conference. Facilitated discussions and work groups will be a primary focus of the conference.

    Objectives:

    1. Disseminate information about Indoor Air Pollution issues related to indoor cooking and heating devices to conference participants.
    2. Obtain information and recommendations from conference participants on issues and concerns related to adverse health impacts from indoor air contaminates from indoor air pollution.
    3. Prepare a final conference report that will provide the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) with information to influence future planning, policy or programmatic decisions regarding this issue.
    4. Develop plans for effective education and outreach programs to reduce risk from indoor air pollution within Tribal homes and communities.

    Times:
    Wednesday, August 18, 2004, 8:00 a.m. to
    Thursday, August 19, 2004, 1:00 p.m.

    Location:
    The Mountaineers Building
    300 Third Ave West
    Seattle, WA (206) 281-7775

    Read the entire announcement (162KB 2pp., PDF)   


    arrow07/30/04

    Call for Participants
    To take part in either of two Emissions Factors Improvement Workshops

    Conducted by:
    Emissions Factors and Policy Applications Group
    Emissions Monitoring and Analysis Division
    Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards

    8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. August 25, 2004 and
    8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. August 26, 2004

    LOCATION: Washington, D.C. EPA East Conference room 1153

    1. Are there emissions factors that you need but can not find?

    2. Would you like to know data quality (e.g., accuracy, precision) of emissions factors and how to use that information?

    3. Are there published emissions factors that you know are out of date?

    4. Do you know of applications for which emissions factors are simply not the right tools for the job?

    If you answer yes to any of these questions, this workshop is an opportunity for you to be part of a major shift in how the air pollution emissions factors program proceeds. The Emissions Factors and Policy Applications Group and OAQPS management have assessed the state of emissions factors development and applications and, as a result, have planned significant changes to the program. These changes are intended to ensure that users have the emissions quantification tools and information needed, recognizing that EPA can no longer be the major emissions factors provider.

    You can play an important role in the future of the program. To help determine that role, you are invited to participate in a one-day workshop either August 25 or 26. The workshop is designed to engage you and your colleagues in resolving issues important to you. Representatives from OAQPS will summarize the results of months of stakeholder discussions and strawman plans to advance the emissions factors program both in data development and in applications. The bulk of the workshop will be interactive sessions focused on identifying and exploring means to make the emissions factors program self-sustaining and to better address users’ needs.

    Please, obtain registration forms for the workshops at http://www.epa.gov/ttn/emc/meetnw/workshoppromo2.html and e-mail the completed form to us at myers.ron@epa.gov

    For more information contact Ron Myers at (919) 541-5407; or Sean Mulligan of MACTEC Federal Programs at (919) 941-0333


    arrow07/27/04

    eRulemaking Initiative Public Forums

    A series of public forums on the eRulemaking Initiative will be held in August in Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., sponsored by the eRulemaking Program Office and the EPA’s Office of Environmental Information. The forums will give citizens an opportunity to learn about the eRulemaking Initiative and provide input on its major projects. The eRulemaking Program Office is soliciting feedback on the usability and features of the electronic system currently available to the public – the Regulations.gov Web site – and the planned government-wide electronic federal docket management system. The public forums will be open to citizens and other public stakeholders, including industry and trade associations, advocacy groups, businesses, labor unions, state and local governments, and the academic community. The Federal Register Notice announcing these meetings was published on July 16, 2004 (69 FR 42727).

    For further information, contact Kristin Tensuan at the eRulemaking PMO (tensuan.kristin@epa.gov).


    arrow07/16/04

    National Tribal Air Association's Third Annual Conference Scheduled for Oct. 5-7 in Palm Springs

    The National Tribal Air Association's Third Annual Conference will be held Oct. 5-7 at the Agua Caliente Spa Resort in Palm Springs, California. With the theme of "Our Sacred Breath," the conference is intended to bring together Tribal leaders and members, environmental professionals, and governmental agency representatives from across the country to "inform, discuss, and decide" on indoor and outdoor air quality issues that affect us all. Please contact NTAA Exit EPA disclaimer for more information.


    arrow07/16/04

    Experience the Thrill of a New Web-based Air Pollution Orientation Course

    At last we are offering a web-based Air Pollution Control Orientation Course designed for individuals who are new to air pollution control agencies or for individuals who are seeking to expand their basic knowledge about air pollution control. In fact, this web-based course replaces the (SI: 422) Air Pollution Control Orientation Course Self-Instructional Manual. However, you will enjoy the ease of navigating throughout this web-based course, because each module is composed of units that include introductory materials, graphics, and review quizzes. What's more, you will be able to earn a certificate from the Air Pollution Training Institute (APTI) right from your desktop! So, please don't delay because we are just a click away at www.epa.gov/air/oaqps/eog/.


    arrow07/07/04

    EPA Responds to States and Tribes

    On June 28 and 29, EPA responded to state and Tribal recommendations for attainment and nonattainment areas under the more protective national air quality standard for fine particles.

    For more information


    arrow07/02/04

    Job Vacancy Announcement

    This Job Vacancy Announcement (JVA) for the Navajo EPA Air Quality Control Program was placed on the listserve about two weeks ago. The JVA indicated a 6/15/04 closing date, which was incorrect. It is "open until filled".

    Read the announcement (138KB 1pp., PDF)   

    Again, my contact information is:

    Christopher Lee
    Environmental Program Supervisor
    Navajo EPA - Air Quality Control Program
    (928) 729-4247
    (928) 729-4323 FAX


    arrow06/08/04

    Fuel Your Knowledge - The Boiler MACT
    Thursday, June 17, 2004, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

    A&WMA; and its Oregon and Puget Sound chapters are sponsoring a
    live interactive audio + Web conference:

    Fuel Your Knowledge - The Boiler MACT
    Thursday, June 17, 2004, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

    Hosted by CH2M HILL at both its Portland and Seattle offices:

    825 NE Multnomah
    Suite 1300
    Portland, Oregon
    and at   777-108th Avenue NE,
    Bellevue, Washington
    (14th floor conference room)

    A&WMA; is pleased to present "Fuel Your Knowledge - The Boiler MACT" on June 17th. This audio + web conference is intended provide up-to-date information on this far-reaching maximum achievable control technology (MACT) rule for commercial/industrial boilers and process heaters. On 26 February 2004, the Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule to reduce hazardous air pollutant (HAP) emissions from industrial, commercial, and institutional boilers and process heaters. The Agency estimates that approximately 60,000 boilers and process heaters will be subject to new more stringent emissions reduction requirements. The rule may is applicable to major sources of HAP that operate boilers and/or process heaters, including those with very minimal boiler/process heater operations.

    The audio + web conference will explore the rule in-depth and cover all the compliance options available to affected facilities, including work practices, the installation of air pollution control equipment, and the newer approach developed by EPA based upon health-based threshold emission limits for hydrochloric acid/chlorine and manganese.

    Presenters:
    Robert Bessette
      President,
      Council of Industrial Boiler Owners
      (CIBO)

    Jim Eddinger
      U.S. EPA, OAQPS,
      Emission Standards Division,
      Combustion Group
    Tim Hunt
      Senior Director Air Quality Programs,

      American Forest & Paper Association
      (AF&PA;)

    David Painter
      US EPA, OAQPS,
      Information Transfer and Program
      Integration Division

    Please RSVP by noon, June 11th to:

    Portland:
    Tom Nilan: tnilan@ch2m.com (503) 872-4720

    Seattle:
    Jay Willenberg: jwillenb@ch2m.com (425) 233-3532

    Conference Registration Fees: $20 for members, $35 for nonmembers. Lunch is included in the conference fees.

    Note: The cost to join the Pacific Northwest International Section of A&WMA; is only $15.

    Claude Williams, P.E.
    Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
    110 Union Street, Seattle WA 98101-2038
    (206) 689-4066
    Fax: (206) 343-7522
    E-mail: claudew@pscleanair.org
    Web: http://www.pscleanair.org Exit EPA disclaimer


    arrow05/05/04

    Announcement of Funding Available for Retrofitting

    EPA's Voluntary Diesel Retrofit Program is now accepting grant applications to assist in implementing projects that demonstrate the innovative usage of EPA verified pollution control equipment in reducing emissions from diesel fleets, including nonroad fleets, that affect sensitive populations – such as children, the elderly, and the chronically ill – who are more susceptible to the effects of diesel exhaust. Applications will be accepted from state, local, multi-state, and Tribal agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The total estimated funding for this project is up to $1,500,000. EPA anticipates award of ten to fifteen cooperative agreements, each ranging from $100,000 to $150,000, resulting from this announcement.

    EPA requests notification of intent to apply by May 28, 2004.
    Complete applications must be submitted and received no later than July 2, 2004.

    The announcement soliciting proposals is at http://www.epa.gov/air/grants_funding.html#trans.

    An Application Kit is at the top of the previous page or: http://www.epa.gov/air/grants_funding.html.

    Information on the Voluntary Diesel Retrofit Program: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/retrofit/.

    Information also on our "Latest News" site: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/retrofit/latestnews.htm/.



    arrow04/30/04

    EPA Statement on Requested Extensions for Clean Air Rule Comments

    The Bush Administration's proposed Utility Mercury Rule is the nation's first-ever effort to regulate mercury emissions from power plants. The proposed rule, also known as the Clean Air Mercury Rule, will dramatically reduce mercury emissions and is critical to protecting public health.

    As part of the settlement agreement reached under the previous Administration, the Agency had a deadline of December 15, 2004 to finalize a mercury regulation. In separate requests, EPA has been asked to withdraw the proposed rule and extend the comment period.

    While the Agency has no interest in withdrawing the proposed regulation, it welcomes the opportunity to consider further information and comment. That became possible when the plaintiff in this action agreed to extend the deadline to allow time for additional comment. Today EPA extended the public comment period by 60 days, to end June 29, 2004. In addition, the Agency will conduct whatever analysis is necessary to ensure the right decision is made and meet the goal of protecting public health in the most effective way possible. This analysis will be made available for public comment prior to finalization of the rule. The mercury rule will be finalized in time to meet the new court deadline of March 15, 2005.

    EPA still plans to finalize the Clean Air Interstate Rule, formally known as the Interstate Air Quality Rule, by the end of 2004.

    For more information, visit the Mercury Rule site at: http://www.epa.gov/air/mercuryrule/

    R082 ###

    Deliberative Document -- FOIA Exempt

    Bill Maxwell
    Combustion Group/Emission Standards Division
    C439-01
    U.S. EPA
    Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
    (919) 541-5430


    arrow04/15/04

    Funding for Community-based Projects

    We expect to announce shortly, via the EPA Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) Web site, a Request for Applications (RFA) for Community-Based Projects. The URL for the OAR Grants/Funding Web site is: http://www.epa.gov/air/grants_funding.html

    The RFA will fund up to $600,000 in projects that are related to stationary source or indoor air activities. We anticipate awarding between 6-10 projects ranging from $60-100K. Almost anyone who is eligible for a grant will be able to apply.

    In addition, we anticipate there being additional funding ($200,000 total) for awardees to support activities such as facilitation, education on basic air toxics information, etc. That money will be available through a separate contract with OAR.

    I am sending this early notice so that you can be prepared to notify interested parties once the notification is on the Web site. The time frame for receiving applications will be very short - 30 days, so this notice will close in mid-May. The timing is short so that awards can be made this fiscal year.

    Once the RFA is posted, questions that arise from parties who wish to apply must be forwarded to me. All questions or comments must be communicated in writing via postal mail, facsimile, or electronic mail to me. Answers will be posted biweekly until the closing date of the announcement.

    Thank you,
    Laura McKelvey


    arrow04/13/04

    ATRA Library Fact Sheet

    EPA is currently developing a resource library for conducting air toxics analyses at the facility and community-scale. This effort will result in a three volume library that provides information on the fundamental principles of risk-based assessment for air toxics and how to apply those principles in different settings as well as strategies for reducing risk at the local level.

    Fact Sheet (564KB PDF)   


    arrow04/06/04

    March 2004 Tribal Air News

    The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe and EPA Work Together to Achieve an Environmental First

    On November 20, 2003, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, EPA Region 2 and the Criminal Investigations Division signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for air enforcement in Mohawk Indian Country. This Memorandum of Agreement or MOA was signed in Syracuse at the annual Indian Nations Leaders meeting with EPA’s Region 2 management. This agreement is the first of its kind – not only in air but in all media.

    Read the Rest of the Story (161KB PDF)   
    Read the Newsletter (161KB PDF)   


    arrow02/19/04

    NTEC Air programs/EPA Proposed Public Meeting of Mercury Ruling

    Hello all,

    The good folks at NTEC and EPA are attempting to hold a public meeting in Denver, Colorado, March 11, 2004. The meeting will cover the proposed Mercury ruling. Attached is a letter that explains everything. I am the contact on this.

    Letter (81KB PDF)   

    Thanks, good day.

    J. Stephen Hartsfield
    Operations Coordinator
    National Tribal Air Association
    National Tribal Environmental Council
    Albuquerque, NM
    (505) 242-2175
    www.ntec.org Exit EPA disclaimer
    shartsfield@ntec.org


    arrow02/13/04

    Register Now for the 2004 Air Toxics Workshop

    IT'S UP ON THE WEB!

    Registration starts now for the 2004 Air Toxics Workshop and optional training that will be held April 13-16, 2004 at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel & Convention Center, Research Triangle Park, NC. Please register early, the registration is FREE. The workshop is being cosponsored by the US Environmental Protection Agency, State and Territorial Air Pollution Program Administrators, and Association of Local Air Pollution Control Officials.

    The workshop's Web site is:

    http://www.cleanairinfo.com/airtoxics2004/ Exit EPA disclaimer

    This Web site has an on-line registration form and other current agenda, hotel, and travel information. Closer to the workshop, this Web site will also have all of the speakers' presentations available for download.

    An "Air Toxics 2004 Workshop" room block has been established at the Sheraton Imperial at a rate of $82/night plus tax. The phone number is (919) 941-5050 or (800) 325-3535. Please make your reservations early to ensure room availability! Room reservations must be made before March 22, 2004 to receive this guaranteed special rate. For additional information contact Mr. Lalit Banker, EPA OAQPS, (919) 541-5420, banker.lalit@epa.gov (for agenda and technical issues) or Donna Lee Jones, EC/R, Inc, (919) 484-0222 ext. 337, jones.donnalee@ecrweb.com (for registration and logistics issues).

    We look forward to your participation and attendance!

    View the flyer (721KB PDF)    for posting in your office or distributing to colleagues.


    arrow02/11/04

    Public Hearings for IAQR and Mercury Rules

    EPA will hold the public hearings for the IAQR and mercury rules February 25-26 in Chicago, IL; Philadelphia, PA and in Research Triangle Park, NC.

    For details on these hearings see:

    www.epa.gov/mercury
    www.epa.gov/interstateairquality

    Announcements from prior years:

    2003 Announcements
    2002 Announcements

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