With Summer’s Arrival, Rhode Islanders Reminded About Woonasquatucket River "Do's and Don'ts"

News Release
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
New England Regional Office
June 29, 2012

Contact: Stacy Greendlinger, (617) 918-1403

With Summer’s Arrival, Rhode Islanders Reminded About Woonasquatucket River "Do's and Don'ts"

(Boston, Mass. – June 29, 2012) – As summer weather tempts local youth to find a place to swim, EPA reminds the public to use the Woonasquatucket River responsibly. Specifically, residents of North Providence, Johnston, and Providence should keep in mind that contamination in and along the river may pose a health risk.

EPA asks that people keep in mind the following Do's & Don'ts for the Woonasquatucket River:
      - Don't eat fish, turtles, eels, other wildlife or plants from the Woonasquatucket River;
      - Don't wade in the shallow water or swim in the river;
      - Don't dig into the river banks; and,
      - Do obey the warning signs posted along the river.

With summer weather in full force, the Woonasquatucket River is an appealing spot for children. While EPA continues to make progress in cleaning up dioxin contaminated areas, parents, teachers, and camp counselors should remain vigilant to ensure that children are protected from dioxin and other contaminants remaining in the water, sediment and soil. Walking, running, or bike riding along the river, and paddling a canoe or kayak on the river are ways to safely enjoy the river. However, people should wash thoroughly after any contact with the river water, sediment or soil.

In October 2011 EPA presented a proposed cleanup approach for addressing contamination in Allendale and Lyman Mill Ponds and floodplain areas and expects this fall to release the final cleanup plan and responses to comments received during the 120-day public comment period.  The October 2011 Centredale Manor Restoration Project Superfund Site Proposed Cleanup Plan can be reviewed at the North Providence and Johnston public libraries.

More information on the Woonasquatucket River and Centredale Manor cleanup (http://www.epa.gov/region1/superfund/sites/centredale)

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Learn More about the Latest EPA News & Events in New England (http://www.epa.gov/region1/newsevents/index.html)

Follow EPA New England on Twitter (http://twitter.com/epanewengland)

More info on EPA's Environmental Results in New England (http://www.epa.gov/region1/results/index.html)

EPA Provides Grants to Newark, New Jersey Community Group to Educate People about the Passaic River’s History and Ecosystem

Press release:

EPA Provides Grants to Newark, New Jersey Community Group

to Educate People about the Passaic River’s History and Ecosystem

Ironbound Community Corporation to Receive $60,000

Contact: John Martin, (212) 637-3662, martin.johnj@epa.gov

(New York, N.Y. – June 29, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is providing a $60,000 grant to the Ironbound Community Corporation, a community organization in the Ironbound section of Newark, New Jersey, to educate the community about the history and ecology of the Passaic River and what can be done to protect it. The funding is part of the EPA’s Urban Waters program, which supports community efforts to restore and revitalize local canals, rivers, lakes, wetlands, aquifers, estuaries, bays and ocean areas and provide access to them. The Ironbound Community Corporation is the largest comprehensive social service provider in the area.

"Urban waterways like the Passaic River have been battered by toxic and sewage pollution for too long," said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck. "By providing these grants, the EPA is supporting efforts to educate the public about the history of the Passaic River and the need to work together to clean it up.”

The Ironbound Community Corporation will offer a series of river tours and “walkshops” to introduce Newark residents to the Passaic River’s history and ecosystem. The programs will include a series of walks along the river’s edge to celebrate the river and educate participants about what they can do to improve the river. The Ironbound Community Corporation will also produce a Back to the River brochure and map depicting the history and current state of the Lower Passaic River.

Many urban waterways have been polluted for years by sewage, runoff from city streets and contamination from abandoned industrial facilities. Healthy and accessible urban waters can help local businesses grow and enhance educational, recreational, employment and economic opportunities in nearby communities. By promoting public access to urban waterways, the EPA is helping communities become active participants in restoration and protection.

Through the Urban Waters program, the EPA is awarding grants ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 to 46 organizations throughout the nation. The projects selected for the funding will promote the restoration of urban waters through community engagement and outreach, water quality monitoring and studies, and environmental education and training. To view a list of the grant recipients, visit: http://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/funding.

Information on the EPA’s Urban Waters program: http://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/index.html.

Information on the Urban Waters Federal Partnership: http://urbanwaters.gov/.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter at http://twitter.com/eparegion2 and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/eparegion2.

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EPA Provides Grants to New York State Groups To Educate People about Efforts to Restore Urban Rivers

Press release:

EPA Provides Grants to New York State Groups

To Educate People about Efforts to Restore Urban Rivers

Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Groundwork Hudson Valley

and Rocking the Boat to Receive Total of $171,256

Contact: John Martin, (212) 637-3662, martin.johnj@epa.gov 

(New York, N.Y. – June 29, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is providing grants to three community organizations in New York State to help restore urban waters, support community revitalization efforts and protect the health of people living near these waterways. The grants will be awarded to the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Groundwork Hudson Valley and Rocking the Boat, which will focus on the Bronx River. The funding is part of the EPA’s Urban Waters program, which supports community efforts to restore and revitalize local canals, rivers, lakes, wetlands, aquifers, estuaries, bays and ocean areas and provide access to them.

"Urban waterways have been battered by decades of pollution," said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck. "EPA is working hard to improve water quality in urban waterways across the country and some are just beginning to recover. Urban waters can be tremendous community assets and these grants will help communities get involved in protecting these water resources.”

The Hudson River Sloop Clearwater will receive $59,855 to teach youth in the Fall Kill Watershed about watershed science and green infrastructure, and help them design signs to educate and inspire their communities. The Hudson River Sloop Clearwater is an organization that works to preserve and protect the Hudson River and its tributaries, as well as the communities of the Hudson River Valley.

Clearwater will provide technical guidance to about 100 local landowners on how to prevent their properties from contributing to water pollution. The organization will also consult with 20 homeowners about green infrastructure designs for their properties and implement the projects on 10 of them.

Groundwork Hudson Valley will be provided $51,401 to conduct a series of community meetings, planning and training sessions and workshops in Westchester County, New York to educate people living near the Saw Mill River community about water quality and green infrastructure. Groundwork Hudson Valley is an environmental justice non-profit organization that works with communities to improve their physical and social environment. The organization will also conduct outreach to neighborhood residents and businesses, and conduct educational sessions with local students.

Rocking the Boat will receive $60,000 to work with local students and others in hands-on restoration, monitoring, and educational activities both on and around the Bronx River. Rocking the Boat is a community organization that uses boats to inspire young people challenged by economic, educational, and social disadvantages.

Many urban waterways have been polluted for years by sewage, runoff from city streets and contamination from abandoned industrial facilities. Healthy and accessible urban waters can help local businesses grow and enhance educational, recreational, employment and economic opportunities in nearby communities. By promoting public access to urban waterways, the EPA is helping communities become active participants in restoration and protection.

Through the Urban Waters program, the EPA is awarding grants ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 to 46 organizations throughout the nation. The projects selected for the funding will promote the restoration of urban waters through community engagement and outreach, water quality monitoring and studies, and environmental education and training. To view a list of the grant recipients, visit http://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/funding.

Information on the EPA’s Urban Waters program: http://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/index.html.

Information on the Urban Waters Federal Partnership: http://urbanwaters.gov/.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter at http://twitter.com/eparegion2 and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/eparegion2.

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US Announces Clean Air Act Settlement with Wisconsin Utility

Press release:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2012

US Announces Clean Air Act Settlement with Wisconsin Utility
Dairyland Power Cooperative to reduce emissions by more than 29,000 tons annually

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a Clean Air Act (CAA) settlement with Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) that will cover the utility’s three power plants in Alma and Genoa, Wis. DPC has agreed to invest approximately $150 million in pollution control technology that will protect public health and resolve violations of the CAA. The settlement will also require that DPC spend $5 million on environmental mitigation projects and pay a civil penalty of $950,000.

“EPA is committed to protecting communities by reducing air pollution from the largest sources of emissions,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “The pollution reductions and the significant investment in local environmental projects under this agreement will ensure that the people of Wisconsin and neighboring states have cleaner, healthier air.”

“This settlement will improve air quality in Wisconsin and downwind areas by significantly reducing releases of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and other harmful pollutants,” said Ignacia S. Moreno, assistant attorney general for the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice. “This agreement also demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to enforcing the New Source Review provisions of the Clean Air Act, which help ensure cleaner air for those communities located near large sources of air pollution.”

Under the settlement, DPC must install pollution control technology on its three largest units and will be required to continuously operate the new and existing pollution controls and will be required to comply with stringent emission rates and annual tonnage limitations. The settlement also requires DPC to permanently retire three additional coal-fired units at the Alma plant, which have been out of operation since last year. The permanent retirement of these units will ensure that they do not restart without first complying with the CAA. The actions taken by DPC to comply with this settlement will result in annual reductions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions by 23,000 tons and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by 6,000 tons from 2008 levels, in addition to significant reductions of particulate matter emissions. This settlement covers all seven coal-fired boilers at DPC’s three power plants.

The settlement also requires DPC to spend $5 million on projects that will benefit the environment and human health in communities located near the DPC facilities. DPC must pay $250,000 each to the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service, to be used on projects to address the damage done from DPC’s alleged excess emissions. At least $2 million will be spent on a major solar photovoltaic development project. The remaining mitigation funding will be spent on one or more of the following projects: 1) installation of solar photovoltaic panels, 2) home weatherization projects, and 3) the replacement of DPC’s standard vehicle fleet with cleaner burning vehicles. The Sierra Club is a party to the settlement, which will also resolve violations alleged by Sierra Club in related litigation.

Reducing air pollution from the largest sources of emissions, including coal-fired power plants, is one of EPA’s National Enforcement Initiatives for 2011-2013. SO2 and NOx, two key pollutants emitted from power plants, have numerous adverse effects on human health and are significant contributors to acid rain, smog and haze. These pollutants are converted in the air to fine particles of particulate matter that can cause severe respiratory and cardiovascular impacts, and premature death. Reducing these harmful air pollutants will benefit the communities located near DPC facilities, particularly communities disproportionately impacted by environmental risks and vulnerable populations, including children. Because air pollution from power plants can travel significant distances downwind, this settlement will also reduce air pollution outside the immediate region.

This is the 22nd judicial settlement secured by the Justice Department and EPA, and the 23rd settlement overall, as part of a national enforcement initiative to control harmful emissions from power plants under the Clean Air Act’s New Source Review requirements. The total combined sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides emission reductions secured from these settlements will exceed nearly 2 million tons each year once all the required pollution controls have been installed and implemented.

The settlement was lodged yesterday in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, and is subject to a 30-day public comment period and final court approval.

More information about the settlement: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/cases/civil/caa/dairyland.html

More information about EPA’s enforcement initiative: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/data/planning/initiatives/2011airpollution.html



R118

Nisso America, Inc., to Pay $6,864 Civil Penalty for Failure to Label and File Notice of Imported Pesticide

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7

901 N. Fifth St., Kansas City, KS 66101

Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Nine Tribal Nations

Nisso America, Inc., to Pay $6,864 Civil Penalty for Failure to Label and File Notice of Imported Pesticide

Contact Information: Ben Washburn, 913-551-7364, washburn.ben@epa.gov

Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., June 29, 2012) - Nisso America, Inc., a subsidiary of Nippon Soda Co., Ltd., of Tokyo, Japan, has agreed to pay a $6,864 civil penalty to the United States for failing to properly label 44 drums containing 880 pounds of imported pesticides from Italy as well as failing to provide EPA with a required notice that it had imported the drums.

According to an administrative consent agreement filed by EPA Region 7 in Kansas City, Kan., Nisso America, Inc., imported 44 drums of Tebufenozide Technical on December 8, 2011. The Notice of Arrival (NOA) form that Nisso America was required to submit to EPA before any shipment of pesticides arrives at a United States port of entry was submitted five days after the 44 drums of pesticide were released from the port of entry into commerce.

On December 27, 2011, an inspector from the Missouri Department of Agriculture found that none of the drums had an EPA-accepted label, therefore missing an EPA registration number, an EPA establishment number, directions for use, a first aid statement, an ingredient statement, a precautionary statement, a signal word, and a child hazard warning statement.

Nisso America, Inc., violated the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) by failing to properly label the 44 drums of imported pesticide and failing to timely submit to EPA the NOA.

The sale or distribution of misbranded or mislabeled pesticides can pose serious risks to human health, plant and animal life, and the environment. Without proper labeling or safety instructions on packaging, users can unintentionally misapply pesticides and may not have adequate information to address needs for first aid in the event of emergency.

Under the FIFRA, importers of pesticides must ensure that pesticides containers imported into the U.S. bear the required FIFRA labeling and must file notices with EPA prior to importation of pesticides. Violation of the FIFRA regulations impacts EPA’s ability to track potentially hazardous and toxic pesticide products.

The pesticide involved in this case, Tebufenozide Technical, is a toxic chemical used in the formulation of other insecticides.

As a result of EPA’s enforcement action, Nisso America, Inc., was required to re-label all 44 drums in the shipment of Tebufenozide Technical. The company has also instituted changes in its practices to prevent similar violations, and has certified that it is presently in compliance with the FIFRA and its regulations.

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Portman, Stabenow Legislation to Stop Asian Carp Passes Congress - Rob Portman

Portman, Stabenow Legislation to Stop Asian Carp Passes Congress - Rob Portman

EPA Awards $120,000 to Revitalize Urban Waters of Spicket River and Merrimack River

News Release
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
New England Regional Office
June 28, 2012
Contact: David Deegan, (617) 918-1017
EPA Awards $120,000 to Revitalize Urban Waters of Spicket River and Merrimack River
(Boston, Mass. – June 28, 2012) – In two separate grants, EPA is awarding $120,000 to two organizations working to clean urban rivers in northeastern Massachusetts.
Grants of $60,000 each to address water quality issues in urban waters will go to Groundwork Lawrence for the “Spicket River Restoration Partnership” in Lawrence, Mass., and to the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments for their project, “Restoring the Merrimack River by Connecting Communities Through Stormwater Education” in the Merrimack River Watershed.
“We are very proud to provide funding to help these groups address urban water quality issues in Massachusetts,” said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA’s New England office. “These funds will help restore urban waters, support community revitalization and protect the health of thousands of people who live, work and recreate on and near these rivers.”
"Urban waters across our nation are brimming with potential. Potential for new businesses to grow and thrive. Potential for educational, recreational and social opportunities," said EPA acting Assistant Administrator for Water Nancy Stoner. "To help tap into that potential, EPA is funding projects across the country to help restore urban waters, support community revitalization and protect American's health."
With the EPA grant, Groundwork Lawrence will take its successful approach of converting ‘brownfields’ into parks and open space to apply it to developing citizen stewardship supporting water quality restoration of the Spicket River. The “Spicket River Restoration Partnership” will engage the community through citizen volunteers for water quality testing to establish a water quality baseline and to further characterize the environmental condition of the river. It will identify stream channel issues and harmful contamination threats such as stormwater infrastructure and combined sewer overflows. Information learned will be integrated into the larger Merrimack River Watershed Council’s efforts.
For the second grant, the Northern Middlesex County of Governments will combine efforts with Merrimack River Watershed Council and other partners to develop stormwater education within the communities, neighborhoods and populations in the Merrimack River region and elsewhere in the Commonwealth. Partners will develop a training and outreach program designed to educate community citizens, municipal staff and officials about the effects of stormwater on water quality and solutions available to individuals and communities. It will include educational workshops, trainings, and materials and media outlets with various languages for all community citizens.
The two Massachusetts grants are part of $2.7 million EPA awarded nationally to 46 organizations in 32 states and Puerto Rico to help restore urban waters. Funding from EPA’s Urban Waters program supports communities’ efforts to protect and restore water quality so they can access, improve and benefit from their urban waters and the surrounding land.

Many urban waterways have been polluted for years by sewage, runoff from city streets and contamination from abandoned industrial facilities. Healthy and accessible urban waters can help grow local businesses and enhance educational, economic, recreational, employment and social opportunities in nearby communities. . By awarding these small grants to restore urban waterways, EPA will help communities become active participants in restoring urban waters while improving and protecting their neighborhoods.

More Information:
- EPA’s Urban Waters program: http://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/index.html
- All Urban Waters projects funded under this grant program: http://www.epa.gov/urbanwaters/funding

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EPA protects Sheyenne River from unauthorized construction site discharges

Press release:

EPA protects Sheyenne River from unauthorized construction site discharges

Gowan Construction to pay $40,000 for Clean Water Act violations near Harwood; NDDOT to improve stormwater management and oversight

Contacts: Seth Draper, 303-312-6763; Matthew Allen, 303-312-6085

(Denver, Colorado – June 28, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached an agreement with Gowan Construction, Inc. (Gowan) and the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) resolving alleged violations of the Clean Water Act at an interstate highway construction project affecting the Sheyenne River near Harwood in Cass County, North Dakota. Gowan is based in Oslo, Minn. and maintains a branch office in Grand Forks, N.D.

Under a consent agreement signed on June 12, 2012, Gowan will pay a penalty of $40,000. As part of the agreement, NDDOT has agreed to inspect active construction sites, review stormwater pollution prevention plans created for the department’s projects, and conduct reviews to ensure their contractors are complying with the Clean Water Act. NDDOT agreed to develop a website devoted to stormwater management that offers resources for contractors, and plans to continue to provide stormwater training opportunities for its contractors.

"EPA will vigorously enforce the laws to protect our nation’s water resources,” said Mike Gaydosh, EPA’s Enforcement Director in Denver. “EPA is encouraged that Gowan and the State of North Dakota are taking steps to ensure compliance with requirements that limit runoff of pollutants into surface waters.”

The alleged violations were discovered during an EPA inspection of Gowan’s construction site on Interstate 29, northwest of Fargo, in August, 2010. The project created a land disturbance of 220 acres (the size of 198 football fields), which intersected and overlaid the Sheyenne River. The Sheyenne River is a major tributary to the Red River of the North.

EPA observed unauthorized stormwater discharges at the site and alleged that Gowan and NDDOT had failed to maintain stormwater controls (such as silt fences, straw wattles, and silt curtains), failed to comply with inspection requirements, and failed to develop an adequate stormwater pollution prevention plan, all in violation of the Clean Water Act and their permit. The inspection was conducted when the project was 50% complete. During construction activities, 1100 tons of sediment was estimated to have been discharged in violation of the Clean Water Act. After EPA’s inspection an estimated 950 tons of sediment was reduced from entering surface water.

Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation from rain and snowmelt events flows over disturbed and unprotected land surfaces. This runoff accumulates debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants that could adversely affect water quality if unchecked and untreated. Sediment can kill fish directly, destroy spawning beds, suffocate fish eggs and bottom dwelling organisms, and block sunlight resulting in reduced growth of beneficial aquatic grasses. In addition, sediment can impact the treatment of drinking water resulting in higher treatment costs, and can result in the loss of drinking water reservoir storage capacity and decrease the navigational capacity of waterways.

Information from NDDOT on stormwater requirements can be found online at www.dot.nd.gov or by calling 701-328-2563.

Developers, contractors, and other landowners who plan to conduct construction activities disturbing one acre of land or greater should obtain stormwater permit coverage with the North Dakota Department of Health at: http://www.ndhealth.gov/wq/storm/StormWaterHome.htm.

For more information on EPA’s stormwater permitting program: www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater.

EPA Region 7 to Announce Expansion of Environmental Partnerships with Iowa City, Iowa

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7

901 N. Fifth St., Kansas City, KS 66101

Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Nine Tribal Nations

EPA Region 7 to Announce Expansion of Environmental Partnerships with Iowa City, Iowa

Contact Information: Kris Lancaster, (913) 551-7557, lancaster.kris@epa.gov

Environmental News

NEWS MEDIA ADVISORY

(Kansas City, Kan., June 27, 2012) - EPA Region 7 Administrator Karl Brooks, Iowa City Mayor Matt Hayek, and others will hold a news conference Friday, June 29, to announce a new environmental partnership between EPA and the City of Iowa City, Iowa.

EPA is providing a $60,000 urban waters grant to Iowa City for modifications to the Burlington Street Dam, which will result in water quality improvements, improved fish habitat, flood mitigation and revitalization of the Riverfront Crossings District. The funding is part of EPA’s Urban Waters Program, which supports communities in their efforts to access, improve and benefit from urban waters and surrounding land.

EPA has worked closely with the University of Iowa and Iowa City officials to initiate numerous environmental partnerships. One of the university partnerships is related to increasing awareness about the shared value of Iowa’s water resources and the impact of land use along rivers. As part of the Iowa City partnerships, EPA provided a market analysis, transit development study and plans for the Riverfront Crossings District. The plan provides a vision for redevelopment of underutilized properties with a mixture of housing, commercial and civic uses and restoration of the floodplain as a major riverfront park.

WHAT: Announcement of expansion of environmental partnerships with Iowa City

WHEN: 9:00 a.m., June 29, 2012 (Tour of the riverfront for news media will begin at 9:30 a.m.)

WHERE: Stanley Hydraulics Laboratory, Room 127, 300 S. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 (Parking is available south of the laboratory on Riverside Drive.)

WHO: EPA Region 7 Administrator Karl Brooks, Iowa City Mayor Matt Hayek, Iowa Department of Natural Resources Environmental Services Division Administrator Bill Ehm, University of Iowa Director of Hydroscience and Engineering Larry Weber, and Iowa City Chamber of Commerce Vice President Rebecca Neades

VISUALS: Iowa City officials will share project details during a tour of the riverfront highlighting Burlington Street Dam modifications for improved water quality, riverbank stabilization and fish habitat.

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EPA Agreement with BASF Corp. on Air Pollution from Wyandotte Plant Brings Clean Diesel Project to Wayne County

Press release:

For Immediate Release

No. 12 – OPA049

EPA Agreement with BASF Corp. on Air Pollution from Wyandotte Plant Brings Clean Diesel Project to Wayne County

Chicago (June 27, 2012) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached an agreement with BASF Corp. regarding alleged violations of the Clean Air Act at its Wyandotte, Michigan, chemical manufacturing facility. Under a consent agreement and final order, BASF has agreed to pay a $788,048 penalty and spend at least $250,000 on a supplemental environmental project to retrofit or replace municipal diesel engines in Wayne County with certified clean-diesel technologies.

“As a result of EPA enforcement of the Clean Air Act, people living in Wayne County will breathe cleaner and healthier air,” said EPA Regional Administrator Susan Hedman.

BASF will also improve leak detection and repair practices and has made changes to its processes to reduce volatile organic compounds and air toxics (hazardous air pollutants) from the facility.

This agreement is part of an EPA national initiative to target and reduce illegal emissions of air toxics from leaks and reduce excess emissions from facilities that have a significant impact on air quality and health in residential areas.

Emissions of certain air toxics are either known or suspected to cause cancer or birth defects.

10 Communities and Organizations Selected for Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Funding during Green Jobs Training Event

Press release:

10 Communities and Organizations Selected for Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Funding during Green Jobs Training Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Molly Alton Mullins 410.974.2941, Ext. 107

EPA: David Sternberg, 215-814-5548 sternberg.david@epa.gov

(Baltimore, MD – June 27, 2012) Today the Chesapeake Bay Trust, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Department of the Environment announced the recipients of $376,000 in grant funding through EPA’s Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns initiative. This program was created to advance watershed protection, community livability, and economic vitality throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed through the development of stormwater management techniques, green jobs creation and enhanced resident livability. The 10 selected recipients comprise a diverse group of municipalities and organizations that are committed to investing in green infrastructure to improve the environmental quality of life in their communities as well as create green jobs to benefit their local economy.

“We're working with towns and communities to advance environmental best practices, while also providing new opportunities for green jobs that benefit local economies,” said EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. “This program was created to benefit the overall health of communities through greening efforts that can be replicated by towns throughout the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed."

The Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns grant program was open to local governments and non-profit organizations in urban and suburban watersheds in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland, D.C., Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia that were interested in pursuing green streets, green infrastructure, and green jobs as part of their community or watershed planning. Grant assistance up to $35,000 was available for infrastructure project planning and design, and up to $100,000 for implementation and construction.

“We have seen the demand for green infrastructure funding accelerate in recent years as more and more cities and towns are looking for ways to incorporate green techniques into their infrastructure plans,” said Dr. Jana Davis, executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Trust. “Through this incredible partnership with the EPA and the Maryland Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment, we are able to help communities find the resources they need to advance these ever-important ‘green streets’ techniques.”

During today’s event, each grant recipient unveiled individualized plans to develop green infrastructure practices, promote green educational efforts, and advance green employment. In addition, the ability of these projects to serve as a source of green jobs was showcased. Because green infrastructure projects rely on new techniques, workers engaged in project construction gain valuable on-the-job training that enhances their skills. The green infrastructure project at the John Eager Howard Elementary School in the City of Baltimore, previously supported under this initiative, has served as a hands-on learning experience as part of a green jobs training program supported through a partnership with the Department of Labor for 30 unemployed or underemployed individuals from the region.

“The City of Baltimore greatly supports urban greening efforts that not only enhance the beauty of a local community, but also improve livability and create jobs,” said Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. “We are honored to have two of these grants awarded today to organizations right here in Baltimore that are accomplishing great ‘green’ things for our city.”

The Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Initiative supports President Obama’s Executive Order for Protecting and Restoring the Chesapeake Bay through the creation of “green streets.” A “green street” is defined as a street that integrates a stormwater management system to reduce the amount of water that is piped directly into streams. Green streets also increase street tree canopy and encourage pedestrian and/or bicycle access; while providing an aesthetic advantage to a community.

“Providing educational opportunities and hands-on learning experiences are crucial to sustaining green development efforts,” said Senator Ben Cardin, a long-time supporter of the Chesapeake Bay Trust and green infrastructure development. “Projects like these will not only enhance sustainable watershed protection and stormwater management techniques, but will also provide Marylanders with the skills necessary to gain employment in the ever-expanding green jobs sector.”

For more information on the Green Streets grant program, visit www.cbtrust.org.

2012 Green Streets Grant Recipients (full descriptions available at mmullins@cbtrust.org)

Belair-Edison Neighborhoods, Inc., Baltimore City, $34,960

Southeast Community Development Corporation, Baltimore City, $67,100

Housing Initiative Partnership, Cecil County, $35,000

Town of Delmar, Wicomico County, $18,950

Town of Forest Heights, Prince George’s County, $55,000
Water Environment Federation, Maryland, $10,000

Town of Ashland, Virginia, $25,000

Matthews County, Virginia, $85,000

City of Romney, West Virginia, $25,000

American Rivers, Pennsylvania, $20,000

Oregon landlord cited for failing to notify tenants of lead paint hazards

Press release:

Oregon landlord cited for failing to notify tenants of lead paint hazards

Future residents will receive required information about lead hazards around homes and apartments

Contact: Hanady Kader, EPA Public Affairs, 206-553-0454, kader.hanady@epa.gov

(Seattle – June 27, 2012) The Curtis O. Baney Marital Trust of Oregon failed to notify tenants of potential lead paint risks in housing near Klamath Falls, Oregon, according to a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The failure to notify renters is a violation of a federal law designed to protect tenants from lead-based paint hazards in pre-1978 housing. The trust has agreed to pay a fine to settle the violations.

“People have a right to know about lead hazards prior to moving into an apartment or house,” said Rick Albright, Director of EPA’s Office of Air, Waste and Toxics in Seattle. “Landlords, property managers and home sellers have a responsibility to inform people about lead risks, and they can do this by simply giving potential tenants available records and a short pamphlet that explains lead hazards.”

Many homes and apartments built before 1978 have paint that contains high levels of lead. Lead from paint, dust, and soil can be dangerous if not managed properly. Lead exposure can harm young children, babies and developing fetuses. People can get lead in their bodies by breathing or swallowing lead dust, or by eating soil or paint chips containing lead.

Curtis O. Baney Marital Trust leases properties in Klamath Falls, Oregon at the Cimarron and Maverick Apartments. From 2007-2010, Curtis O. Baney Marital Trust leased 50 residential units numerous times and failed to notify tenants about the potential presence of lead paint and lead-based paint hazards, as required by the Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule. Curtis O. Baney Marital Trust will pay a $24,600 penalty.

The rule requires landlords, property management companies, real estate agencies, and home sellers to inform potential lessees and purchasers of the presence of lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in pre-1978 housing. They must also provide the purchaser or lessee with a copy of the Lead Hazard Information Pamphlet, “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home” before signing any contracts, and keep records showing they have met the federal requirements.

10 Communities and Organizations Selected for Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Funding during Green Jobs Training Event

Press release:

10 Communities and Organizations Selected for Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Funding during Green Jobs Training Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Molly Alton Mullins 410.974.2941, Ext. 107

EPA: David Sternberg, 215-814-5548 sternberg.david@epa.gov

(Baltimore, MD – June 27, 2012) Today the Chesapeake Bay Trust, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Department of the Environment announced the recipients of $376,000 in grant funding through EPA’s Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns initiative. This program was created to advance watershed protection, community livability, and economic vitality throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed through the development of stormwater management techniques, green jobs creation and enhanced resident livability. The 10 selected recipients comprise a diverse group of municipalities and organizations that are committed to investing in green infrastructure to improve the environmental quality of life in their communities as well as create green jobs to benefit their local economy.

“We're working with towns and communities to advance environmental best practices, while also providing new opportunities for green jobs that benefit local economies,” said EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. “This program was created to benefit the overall health of communities through greening efforts that can be replicated by towns throughout the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed."

The Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns grant program was open to local governments and non-profit organizations in urban and suburban watersheds in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland, D.C., Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia that were interested in pursuing green streets, green infrastructure, and green jobs as part of their community or watershed planning. Grant assistance up to $35,000 was available for infrastructure project planning and design, and up to $100,000 for implementation and construction.

“We have seen the demand for green infrastructure funding accelerate in recent years as more and more cities and towns are looking for ways to incorporate green techniques into their infrastructure plans,” said Dr. Jana Davis, executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Trust. “Through this incredible partnership with the EPA and the Maryland Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment, we are able to help communities find the resources they need to advance these ever-important ‘green streets’ techniques.”

During today’s event, each grant recipient unveiled individualized plans to develop green infrastructure practices, promote green educational efforts, and advance green employment. In addition, the ability of these projects to serve as a source of green jobs was showcased. Because green infrastructure projects rely on new techniques, workers engaged in project construction gain valuable on-the-job training that enhances their skills. The green infrastructure project at the John Eager Howard Elementary School in the City of Baltimore, previously supported under this initiative, has served as a hands-on learning experience as part of a green jobs training program supported through a partnership with the Department of Labor for 30 unemployed or underemployed individuals from the region.

“The City of Baltimore greatly supports urban greening efforts that not only enhance the beauty of a local community, but also improve livability and create jobs,” said Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. “We are honored to have two of these grants awarded today to organizations right here in Baltimore that are accomplishing great ‘green’ things for our city.”

The Green Streets-Green Jobs-Green Towns Initiative supports President Obama’s Executive Order for Protecting and Restoring the Chesapeake Bay through the creation of “green streets.” A “green street” is defined as a street that integrates a stormwater management system to reduce the amount of water that is piped directly into streams. Green streets also increase street tree canopy and encourage pedestrian and/or bicycle access; while providing an aesthetic advantage to a community.

“Providing educational opportunities and hands-on learning experiences are crucial to sustaining green development efforts,” said Senator Ben Cardin, a long-time supporter of the Chesapeake Bay Trust and green infrastructure development. “Projects like these will not only enhance sustainable watershed protection and stormwater management techniques, but will also provide Marylanders with the skills necessary to gain employment in the ever-expanding green jobs sector.”

For more information on the Green Streets grant program, visit www.cbtrust.org.

2012 Green Streets Grant Recipients (full descriptions available at mmullins@cbtrust.org)

Belair-Edison Neighborhoods, Inc., Baltimore City, $34,960

Southeast Community Development Corporation, Baltimore City, $67,100

Housing Initiative Partnership, Cecil County, $35,000

Town of Delmar, Wicomico County, $18,950

Town of Forest Heights, Prince George’s County, $55,000
Water Environment Federation, Maryland, $10,000

Town of Ashland, Virginia, $25,000

Matthews County, Virginia, $85,000

City of Romney, West Virginia, $25,000

American Rivers, Pennsylvania, $20,000

Press release:

June 27, 2012

Portman Urges EPA to Address Onerous Regulation Driving up the Cost of Vacant Property Demolitions in Ohio

Blighted properties are a risk to safety, reduce property values

Washington, DC – U.S. Sen. Rob Portman today urged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address an EPA regulation that has stymied the ability of Ohio land banks and other stakeholders to demolish vacant homes. Ohio has nearly 100,000 vacant properties awaiting demolition, posing a significant risk to public safety and drastically decreasing the value of surrounding properties. Ohio groups – led by the Thriving Communities Initiative in Cleveland – argue that the EPA’s reinterpretation of federal regulations governing asbestos removal has increased costs in both time and money for cities and local land banks that are involved in the demolition of vacant properties.

“The housing market still hasn’t recovered from its collapse in 2008 and the thousands of vacant properties throughout Ohio are stalling a much needed rebound,” said Portman. “Thankfully, communities have been working hard to demolish abandoned buildings and are making some progress. I’m concerned that the EPA is only making it more costly for constituents to address this problem.”

In a letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, Portman noted that EPA’s interpretation means that nearly all demolitions are now subject to onerous rules governing asbestos removal. As local groups have noted, isolated residential buildings were previously exempt from these costly rules, which drive up demolition expenses by 25-40 percent. On July 1, the Ohio Attorney General will begin releasing $75 million to Ohio counties and land banks for demolition purposes. Combined with the local match, this means that over $100 million will be spent to combat this statewide problem. However, unless this regulation is altered, 25-40 percent fewer properties will be demolished with these dollars.
Portman has asked the EPA to work with the Ohio and local stakeholders to reassess the regulation’s impact on local land banks and the communities they serve.

Text of the letter is below.

The Honorable Lisa Jackson
Administrator
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460

Dear Administrator Jackson,

Ohio has nearly 100,000 vacant properties awaiting demolition. These vacant properties represent a serious risk to public safety and are havens for crime and unwanted activity. Additionally, vacant properties have an enormous impact on property value, which the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland outlined in a 2011 report. In some parts of Cleveland, housing values have sunk to just 10 percent of their assessed value. As 60 Minutes documented in December, this is a quickly escalating problem in our urban areas, and we must act aggressively to demolish these vacant properties.

I have been impressed by the work of land banks throughout Ohio who have proactively gotten involved in this effort, by forming public-private partnerships and other innovative approaches. Since 2010, the Cuyahoga County Land Bank has demolished over 800 residential structures in the Cleveland area, with thousands still on the list. With the average property demolition cost already hitting $7,000, I am particularly concerned about regulatory interpretations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that are driving up costs for many demolition projects.
I understand that the EPA’s December 2010 reinterpretation of the National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants regulation governing asbestos removal has increased costs in both time and money for cities and local land banks. Constituents of mine who are proactively trying to address the issue of blighted properties are concerned that your agency is now reading the regulation to no longer exempt isolated residential buildings of four or fewer dwelling units from regulation when part of an “urban renewal project.” Stakeholders including land banks have made a compelling argument that this interpretation is inconsistent with the plain language of the regulation’s exemption for small residential buildings, which makes no such “urban renewal project” distinction.

Due to the EPA’s cramped interpretation of residential exemption, nearly all demolitions are now subject to these onerous rules – up from just 20 percent of properties before the rules went into place. In fact, the costs of asbestos remediation in Cuyahoga County demolitions increased by 1,600 percent in just one year. Given the staggering cost increases and the growing need for demolitions, I urge you to work with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and local stakeholders to reassess this regulation’s impact on local land banks and the communities they serve.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and Accenture Release Report Featuring European Cities

News release:

June 27, 2012

Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and Accenture Release Report Featuring European Cities

European cities lead global peers in climate change management issues, but face significant risks from warmer temperatures

LONDON, ROME; June 27, 2012 – European cities are leading their international peer group in various areas of climate change management, including setting emissions targets, according to a new report published today by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and Accenture (NYSE:ACN).

According to this new report "Seven Climate Change Lessons from the Cities of Europe," 22 European cities and local governments reported their emissions, strategies, risks and opportunities regarding climate change to CDP this year. Of these, 86 percent have set a city-wide reduction target, compared to the global average of 70 percent. Two-thirds of reporting European cities engaged with their suppliers on climate change, compared to 47 percent across all regional groupings of cities reporting to CDP in 2012.

“European cities are demonstrating leadership and best practice in managing climate change at the local level,” said Conor Riffle, Head of CDP’s cities program. “The report shows that other cities can benefit by implementing similar strategies, like annual measurement and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions.”

“Measuring climate change risks and performance goes beyond environmental stewardship,” said Bruno Berthon, managing director, Accenture Sustainability Services. “Transparent disclosure enables authorities to lower risks and associated insurance costs, and helps to demonstrate to investors and decision makers the relative appeal of their city in a competitive world in which talent and capital have choices as to where they locate.”

As well as target setting, the report identifies and examines six other key areas where European cities are demonstrating best practice to manage climate change including:

1. Annual measurement of emissions: European cities are moving toward measuring and reporting on city-wide emissions annually, using the best practice of annual benchmarking that large listed companies around the world follow. Fifty percent say they are now measuring city-wide emissions annually.
2. Reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions: One of the key goals of climate action is for a city to demonstrate year-on-year emissions reductions at a city-wide level. Two European cities show GHG reductions from their last CDP response—London and Copenhagen.
3. Completing risk assessments: Climate change risk assessment has become mainstream in Europe. Seventeen participating cities (77 percent) have completed or are in the process of completing risk assessments to understand how climate change will affect their local jurisdictions. These efforts reveal that 18 of the 22 European cities face significant risks arising from climate change and 54 percent categorize these risks as severe or very severe. Furthermore, as revealed by the CDP Global Cities Report released on 7th June, 16 of the 22 European cities say they are facing risks related to frequent or intense rainfall and the same proportion reports temperature rises or heatwaves.
4. Developing an adaptation plan: Once the risks have been identified, cities are moving to establish action plans to adapt. Fourteen cities (64 percent) report that they have an adaptation plan, and two additional cities are in the process of developing these plans.
5. Using sustainability to drive competitiveness: European cities show a growing awareness of the economic opportunity from climate change. Thirteen cities (59%) anticipate that addressing climate change will lead to development of new business industries in their cities.
6. Extending the city’s reach through voluntary agreements with the private sector: A small number of leading cities – including Berlin and Helsinki—are utilizing voluntary agreements with local businesses to further their cities’ climate protection goals.

Reporting cities Ajuntament de Barcelona, Ayuntamiento de Madrid, Basel-Stadt, City of Amsterdam, City of Berlin, City of Copenhagen, City of Helsinki, City of Paris, City of Stockholm, City of Warsaw, Comune di Milano, Comune di Oristano, Dublin City Council, Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Gemeente Rotterdam, Greater London Authority, Greater Manchester, ?stanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Moscow Government, Riga City, Roma Capitale, Village of Kadiovacik.

About CDPThe Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is an independent not-for-profit organization providing a transformative global system for companies and cities to measure, disclose, manage and share climate change and water information. Over 3,700 organizations across the world’s largest economies now report their greenhouse gas emissions and assessment of climate change risk and opportunity through CDP, in order that they can set reduction targets and make performance improvements. CDP now holds the largest collection globally of self-reported climate change data. For more information visit www.cdproject.net.

About AccentureAccenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with more than 246,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$25.5 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2011. Its home page is www.accenture.com.

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