The Tribal Newsletter is issued free each month.To receive a copy, call:503-326-5015.

United States Environmental ProtectionAgency

Volume 25 Number 8 September 2016

Continued

http://www.epa.gov/tribal/region-10-tribal-newsletter

Region 10 Tribal

Newsletter

Top NewsRecognizing 25 Years of the Region 10 Tribal Newsletter

Welcome to the 25th anniversary edition of the EPA Region 10 Tribal Newsletter! In support of EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment, we strive to provide timely and informative content so that you have the information you need to understand the issues and administer successful environmental projects.

In recognition of 25 years, we asked Alan Moomaw, a Tribal Coordinator who’s worked in our Olympia, WA office since 1990, and Don Creek, a member of EPA’s Senior Environmental Employment program who’s worked in our Portland, OR office since 1991, to share some of their reflections. Don created the first newsletter to inform tribes about upcoming meetings and funding opportunities, and he still supports its production. Both Alan and Don were among the first at Region 10 to have a job focused on serving tribes, before the existence of the Indian Environmental General Assistance Program. They spent much of their time meeting with tribes to inform them

that EPA had environmental technical assistance available, and about the opportunity to apply for EPA’s multi-media grant (similar to how GAP is used today).

Don Creek

According to Alan and Don, there was a history of hostility between tribes and the federal government (including EPA), but over the years the relationship between tribes and EPA has evolved into one of collaboration. The presence of Tribal Coordinators in EPA Region 10’s operations offices in the four states may have helped to build trust.

Don recalled, “It wasn’t a friendly situation back in ’91 between tribes and a government agency. Now it’s a lot different. Tribes appreciate EPA because we provided a source of information and grants, and have trainings and workshops. The Tribal Coordinators have a good relationship with tribes. I believe tribal representatives feel they are getting responses that they didn’t get before.”

Alan shared that “In the early 1990s, a lot of effort was internal EPA education…you’d continually have to bring up in decision and/or policy processes ‘what about tribes.’ Now the whole Agency gets it.“

Milestones Since 19911992 – Congress passes Indian Environmental General Assistance Program Act, creating the GAP grant program.

1994 – Formation of the National Tribal Operations Committee. The NTOC is tasked with improving communication between EPA and tribes

2000 – President Clinton’s Executive Order 13175 on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments led to development of EPA’s policy to consult with tribes in a meaningful way.

2001 – Establishment of the Regional Tribal Operations Committee.

2 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

ContinuedRecognizing 25 Years of the Region 10 Tribal NewsletterT

O

P

N

E

W

S

The main issue today is still about adequate resources, even though there has been a large investment from where it started. Tribes now at least have infrastructure being built to be able to conduct their own programs, where before there was nothing.”

When asked to describe changes in how EPA communicates with tribes, Don said that “Back in the early days, we held meetings and invited tribes to participate to explain their situation to EPA in Seattle. At that time there was not much communication. Those meetings became the Tribal Leaders Summit we have today. The Tribal Leaders Summit and the RTOC have been ways to help improve communication.”Perhaps the most profound change in how we communicate on a fundamental level, was the advent of the internet. The first tribal newsletters were produced before the internet, and before EPA staff had their own personal computers. Don wrote the first newsletter on a typewriter and sent each out by mail. Today the newsletter is provided in an electronic format to provide accessibility on computers and mobile devices.

In thinking about the future, Don expressed, “I hope that a lot of people would be able to recognize the importance of Native Americans. It has been a great pleasure working with tribes for 25 years.” Alan envisions better connections with youth. He said “That gives me the biggest jazz in doing this work. Youngsters have the idealism and the passion that can really energize.”

We hope that the newsletter will continue to provide the information you need, and that by taking a look back our history we can acknowledge our growth and set a positive course into the future. Thank you to Alan, Don, and the many individuals who have made a difference over the past 25 years!

- 3

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

T

O

P

N

E

W

S

Protect Your Health from the Effects of Wildfire SmokeWildfires generate vast amounts of smoke and pollutants that can impact your health. Wildfire smoke can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with heart disease and/or chronic lung disease (such as asthma) are more susceptible. Even healthy adults can be affected by smoke.

If you smell or see wildfire smoke, take the following steps: • Minimize or stop outdoor activities,

especially exercise. • Stay indoors with windows and doors

closed.

US Forest Service photo

• Don’t run any fans that bring smoky outdoor air into your home – including swamp coolers, air conditioners, whole-house fans or fresh air ventilation systems.

• Change the standard central air-conditioner filter to a medium or high efficiency filter. If you have a wall-unit or window-unit air conditioner, set it to “re-circulate.” If you have access to an indoor room air filter, especially a HEPA-rated filter, set it up in the room where most family members spend their time.

• Do not smoke, fry food, or do other activities that will create indoor air pollution. If you do not have air conditioning, take these additional steps to protect yourself and your family from heat exhaustion: • Lower your body temperature by using cold compresses, misting, and taking cool show-

ers, baths, or sponge baths. • Drink plenty of fluid - unless your doctor has told you to limit the amount of fluid you

drink. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. • Avoid drinks with alcohol or large amounts of sugar. • Consider moving to a location that has air conditioning - or leave the area. • Don’t exercise or do physical activity. • Wear light-weight and light-colored clothing. • Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as fatigue, nausea, headache, and vomiting. If you or a family member is affected by smoke, and symptoms worsen or become severe, seek medical attention and consider going to an emergency shelter or leaving the area until smoke conditions improve. Stay tuned to local media and/or tribal staff for additional air quality advice.

To learn more about what you can do to protect your family’s health from smoke, go to: http://go.usa.gov/xDMZe.

If you live in a region prone to wildfires, plan ahead. For more information on planning for, and recovering from wildfire, go to: https://www.epa.gov/natural-disasters/wildfires.

4 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

T

O

P

N

E

W

S

President Obama Announces 2016 White House Tribal Nations Conference

On Monday, September 26, President Obama will host the 2016 White House Tribal Nations Conference in Washington, D.C.

This will be the President’s eighth and final Tribal Nations Conference, providing tribal leaders from the 567 federally recognized tribes with the opportunity to interact directly with high-level federal government officials and members of the White House Council on Native American Affairs.

Each federally recognized tribe is invited to send one representative to the conference. This year’s conference will continue to build upon the President’s commitment to strengthen the government-to-government relationship with Indian Country and to improve the lives of American Indians and Alaska Natives. To learn more go to http://go.usa.gov/xDw7F.

New EPA Guide on Leveraging Resources for Brownfields Revitalization

The EPA has developed a new guide to assist communities with leveraging funds to address brownfields. Brownfields are properties that may have hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants present. The EPA’s brownfields program provides grants and technical assistance to communities, states, tribes and others to assess, safely clean up and sustainably reuse these contaminated properties.

Many communities struggle to find and attract sufficient funding for brownfields redevelopment projects. It can be difficult for communities to identify how best to invest limited local resources. Sound initial investments of local funds can open opportunities for additional public funds and attract the interest and support of outside investors.

The guide was developed to assist communities in overcoming the challenges of making sound investment decisions to attract resources for community revitalization. The guide is available on EPA’s website at http://go.usa.gov/xDwA3.

10 Years of EPA WaterSense EPA’s WaterSense labeled products can help save billions of gallons of water in the U.S. every year. WaterSense labeled products are independently certified to use at least 20 percent less water and perform as well, or better than standard models.

Taking an action as simple as twisting on a WaterSense labeled aerator and upgrading to a WaterSense labeled faucet could save your household 11,000 gallons over the life of the faucet.

Since the program’s inception in 2006, WaterSense has helped consumers save a cumulative 1.5 trillion gallons of water and more than $32.6 billion in water and energy bills.

To learn more about how you can save water and help WaterSense preserve and protect water resources, go to https://www3.epa.gov/watersense/index.html.

- 5

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

RTOC NEWS

Come raise your environmental issues! 2017 TRIBAL LEADERS SUMMIT

March 29 – 31, 2017; Seattle, WA For Tribal Council Members and Staff

NOTE: IGAP staff, please budget for the TLS in FY2017

The summit includes three days of discussions with Tribal Council members and staff from Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington). The goal of the summit is to provide Tribal Council members and staff the opportunity to meet and share environmental concerns in their geographic areas, with other tribes in Region 10 and with EPA. Topics for discussion could include climate change, environmental justice, and fish consumption rates.

VISIT OUR RTOC R10 BOOTH at ATCEM 2016! Alaska Tribal Conference on Environmental Management will be held on October 24 -28 at the Hilton in Anchorage, Alaska. Please stop by our booth for the latest and greatest information on Region 10.

R10 In-Person Meetings: EPA Office Seattle, WA September 13 – 15 • December 13 – 15

R10 Upcoming Conference Calls Thursdays, October 20 and November 17

12:00 p.m. Alaska 1:00 p.m. • Pacific • 2:00 Mountain Time

CONTACT Christy Finn • cs@rtocregion10.org if you wish to join our monthly teleconference and/or have environmental topics to raise. We look forward to hearing from all the tribes in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

RTOC Special Election for Oregon! Regional Tribal Operation Committee will hold a Special Election for a new Oregon primary. If you wish to apply, please email JR Herbst at Herbst.John@epa.gov.

NTOC/RTOC R10 2016 Elections will have the following positions in the fall: • NTOC: Alaska Position #1 • NTOC: Western Oregon & Western Washington • RTOC R10: Eastern Washington

The EPA will send out nomination requests in the fall! Contact the Regional Tribal Operations Office for more information. Christy Finn, RTOC R10 Communications Specialist • 253-328-4026 • cs@rtocregion10.org Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time Website • www.rtocregion10.org

R

T

O

C

6 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

R

E

G

I

O

N

A

L

U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyAlaska Operations Office

ALASKA NEWS

New Alaska Ocean Acidification NetworkThe Alaska Ocean Acidification Network was formed to expand the understanding of ocean acidification processes and consequences in Alaska, as well as potential adaptation and mitigations actions.

The network is the fourth regional ocean acidification network in the U.S., and will help connect scientists and stakeholder communities, recommend regional priorities, share data, and determine best practices for monitoring.

The network’s new website includes background on ocean acidification, descriptions of monitoring projects around the state, research on impacts to marine species, a list of experts and their expertise, links to data, and more.

To view the website and/or to join the listserv for monthly updates, go to http://www.aoos.org/alaska-ocean-acidification-network.

CONTACT: Darcy Dugan • 907-644-6718 • dugan@aoos.org.

EPA Tribal Consultation Opportunities The following tribal consultation opportunity may be of interest to Region 10 Tribes. A full list of consultation opportunities is available at http://tcots.epa.gov.

Draft Guidance for Conducting Fish Consumption Surveys END DATE: September 13. The EPA is initiating tribal consultation on the draft Guidance for Conducting Fish Consumption Surveys. This draft guidance is an update to EPA’s Guidance for Conducting Fish and Wildlife Consumption Surveys, completed in November 1998. The EPA has revised this guidance in an effort to assist states, tribes, local governments, and others with the design, conduct, and analysis of surveys focused on characterizing contemporary consumption of finfish and shellfish.

Since issuing the 1998 guidance, there have been many changes in the area of survey research including use of mobile devices and the internet. This updated guidance covers a broad overview of the numerous and complex issues surrounding the development of a study approach, identification of survey objectives, sampling options, mode selection, questionnaire development, and operational and analytical considerations. The guidance also includes new sections on fish consumption suppression and the role of heritage rates, especially among tribal populations.

Tribes may access the letter sent to all tribal leaders at http://go.usa.gov/x2YE3.

To learn more about the EPA Guidance on Developing Fish Advisories, go to https://www.epa.gov/fish-tech/epa-guidance-developing-fish-advisories.

C

O

N

S

U

L

T

A

T

I

O

N

- 7

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

C

O

N

S

U

L

T

A

T

I

O

N

Draft Guidelines for Human Exposure Assessment END DATE: September 12. LINK: https://www.epa.gov/osa/guidelines-human-exposure-assessment CONTACT: Michael Broder • 202-564-3393 • broder.michael@epa.gov

Laboratory Competency Policies END DATE: September 30. LINK: http://go.usa.gov/xgXFz CONTACT: Lara Phelps • 919-541-5544 • phelps.lara@epa.gov

Office of Land and Emergency Management FY18-19 Priority Setting END DATE: November 1. The EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management is conducting an early engagement process with tribes on the FY 2018-2019 National Program Manager Guidance.

The Office of Land and Emergency Management provides policy, guidance and direction for the Agency’s emergency response and waste programs. OLEM was formerly known as EPA’s Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER). The National Program Manager Guidance sets forth the operational priorities and strategies the EPA and its state and tribal partners will undertake to protect human health and the environment, consistent with priorities in EPA’s Annual Performance Plan and Budget and EPA Strategic Plan.

Through November, OLEM program offices will have scheduled opportunities for states, tribes, local governments and EPA lead regions to discuss priorities for the agency’s upcoming NPM Guidance cycle. The discussions will occur during regularly-scheduled meetings with our co-implementers and during additional venues, where needed.

To prepare for these discussions, you may wish to review the FY 2016-2017 OLEM NPM Guidance and the FY 2017 Addendum to the FY 2016-2017 Guidance and OLEM’s FY 2016-2017 National Areas of Focus, which will form the basis for our thinking as we consider future priorities.

These documents are available online at https://www.epa.gov/planandbudget/national-program-manager-guidances. We are inviting tribal officials and representatives to join us for an opportunity to discuss the OLEM National Program Manager Guidance Thursday, September 22, 2016 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time.

Call in number: 1-866-299-3188 Use conference code: 202-564-1478

During this call, OLEM will: • Provide an overview of the purpose of the NPM Guidance. • Provide an overview of the program specific areas of focus. • Review the process/timetable for tribes to provide input on the NPM Guidance. • Allow for questions and answers related to this effort. Written comments may be submitted by email to NPMOLEM@epa.gov. CONTACT: Jessica Snyder • (202) 564-1478 • snyder.jessica@epa.gov

8 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

Grants

G

R

A

N

T

S

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Tribal Wildlife GrantsDue Date: September 2.

Tribal Wildlife Grants are used to provide technical and financial assistance to tribes for the development and implementation of programs that benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitat.

Activities may include, but are not limited to planning for wildlife and habitat conservation, fish and wildlife conservation and management actions, fish and wildlife related laboratory and field research, natural history studies, habitat mapping, field surveys and population monitoring, habitat preservation, conservation easements, and public education that is relevant to the project. The funds may be used for salaries, equipment, consultant services, subcontracts, acquisitions and travel.

To learn more and/or to view the FY2017 Notice of Funding Opportunity, go to https://www.fws.gov/nativeamerican/grants.html.

NOAA Saltonstall-Kennedy Fisheries Sustainability and Coastal Community Resilience Grants

DUE DATE: For pre-proposals September 20.

NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service announces the availability of approximately $10 million in funding for projects focusing on sustainable fisheries and coastal fishing communities.

The 2017 solicitation seeks projects that fall into seven priorities: • Marine Aquaculture. • Fishery Data Collection. • Techniques for reducing by catch and other adverse impacts. • Adapting to climate change and other long term ecosystem change. • Promotion, development, and marketing. • Socio-economic research. • Territorial science.

Information on application requirements can be found on the Saltonstall-Kennedy grant program website at http://go.usa.gov/xDzUT.

CONTACT: Daniel Namur • 301- 427-8730 • dan.namur@noaa.gov

- 9

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

G

R

A

N

T

S

Grassroots Communities Mining Mini-Grant ProgramDUE DATE: October 1.

The goal of the program is to support the capacity building efforts of mining-impacted communities to assure that mining projects do not adversely affect the human, cultural, and ecological health of communities. Requests must be project-specific for an immediate need such as legal assistance, organizing and outreach, development of campaign materials, etc. Requests for grants up to $3,000 are reviewed three times per year. The Grassroots Communities Mining Mini-Grant Program is sponsored by the Indigenous Environmental Network and the Western Mining Action Network.

For more information go to http://wman-info.org/programs/mini-grant-program.

New Office of Indian Energy Opportunity: First Steps Toward Developing Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

on Tribal LandsDUE DATE: October 20.

Under this funding opportunity announcement, DOE’s Office of Indian Energy is soliciting applications from Indian Tribes (including Alaska Native Regional Corporations, Village Corporations, and Tribal Energy Resource Development Organizations) to:1. Conduct energy options analyses.2. Establish baseline energy use and efficiency options.3. Develop energy organizations.4. Conduct climate resiliency planning.5. Establish policy, regulations, and codes to reduce energy use or promote

energy development.6. Obtain skills and training related to energy use and development.DOE anticipates making approximately eight to twenty grant awards with DOE funding varying between from $50,000 to $250,000 with period of performance of approximately one to two years, but no longer than three years.

Informational webinar will be held on September 6 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Please register for the webinar online at http://bit.ly/2bALpIF.

To learn more about the funding opportunity, go to http://go.usa.gov/xDwt5.

HUD Office of Native American Programs Technical Assistance Ongoing

HUD ONAP offers free specialized training and technical assistance for Tribal and Tribally Designated Housing Entity grant recipients in areas related to Indian housing programs, administration and management, development, and financing. Tribes or TDHE’s are encouraged to formally request training and technical assistance on a particular need by contacting Lisa Stewart • lisa.stewart@hud.gov • 206-220-6166

10 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

T

R

A

I

N

I

N

G

Training & Scholarships

The Mining Lifecycle: Tribal Engagement and Environmental Responsibility

November 2 – 4: As a follow-up to the Mining and National Environmental Policy Act 101 Training, the Nez-Perce Tribe, in conjunction with National Tribal Mining Workgroup, the EPA, and various environmental and mining experts will host, “The Mining Lifecycle: Tribal Engagement and Environmental Responsibility” training in Phoenix-Gilbert, AZ November 2–3 with a mine tour on November 4. The training will include a variety of topics related to NEPA, compliance, engagement, and mining. Travel funds are still available. Applications for travel reimbursement are available when you register. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.ntmw.org/mining-lifecycle-201-training.html.

EPA Tribal Solid Waste Peer Matching ProgramThe EPA has developed a new tribal solid waste management peer matching program. The program aims to strengthen tribal capacity building and develop sustainable waste management programs.

The program identifies peer matches for tribes through the use of peer mentors (who are working on similar issues) to exchange experiences and practical knowledge with each other.

Peer mentors are tribal environmental personnel who can provide expertise and experience. Mentors volunteer to participate in the program.

Peer matches work well when the tribe requesting a mentor: • Has identified a specific need, such as developing an Integrated Waste Management

Plan or solid waste enforcement codes, constructing and operating a transfer station, recycling facility or landfill, or to acquire best practices for pollution prevention or recycling programs.

• Is approaching a key decision point in the design or implementation of a solution.• Has limited funding for travel or associated costs for formal training, or anticipates

the project will be completed within a one- year timeframe.

Please note that the peer matching program does not have funding available to cover any associated costs (i.e. travel to meet with a mentor). However, funding for travel for peer matches may be available through the Indian Environmental General Assistance Program or other programs.

For details, click on the fact sheet link at http://go.usa.gov/xDwz4. CONTACT: Tonya Hawkins • 703-308-8278 • hawkins.tonya@epa.gov

- 11

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

G

R

A

N

T

S

ITEP Tribal Solid Waste Education and Assistance ProgramThe Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals is coordinating a new onsite mentoring opportunity. If your tribe is facing challenges in implementing your solid waste program (for example recycling, composting, minimizing hazardous substances in your waste stream, making tribally-owned facilities more sustainable, etc.) – then this project may be a way to help you move forward.

Applicants may either have a tribal professional with experience in the type of activity you are interested in developing visit your tribe, or you may send one of your staff to a tribe doing exceptional work in the types of activities you are interested in pursuing.

This will be a competitive process and ITEP has funding for three tribes to participate. If your application is selected, ITEP will help to create a match and facilitate the process from beginning to end, providing funds to cover all travel expenses.

For more information, go to http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Waste/waste_mentors.

CONTACT: Todd Barnell • (928) 523-3840 • Todd.Barnell@nau.edu or Julie Jurkowski • (928) 523-9404 • Julie.Jurkowski@nau.edu

For a full list of trainings offered by ITEP, go to http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Training.

C

L

I

M

A

T

E

Climate ChangeSecond Annual Tribal Leaders Summit on Climate Change

Leaning into Our Resilience: Adapting Our WaySilver Reef Hotel Casino Spa, 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale, WA 98248

September 14 – 15 • 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Tulalip Tribes and Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians invite you to the 2nd Annual Tribal Leaders Climate Summit, September 14 – 15 at the Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa in Ferndale, Washington.

Day 1 of this 2-day Summit will focus on the challenges, opportunities and needs to best develop and implement tribal climate adaptation plans and will include scenario planning.

The theme for Day 2 is “Tribal Rights and Authorities and Climate Change” addressing policy direction and needs across all levels of government including state/local, regional, national, and international.

Meeting attendees will include tribal leadership and staff from the greater ATNI region as well as Alaska, United Southern and Eastern Tribes, NW Indian Fisheries Commission, Columbia River Intertribal Fisheries Commission, federal agency representatives, and other intertribal and intergovernmental organizations.

Please don’t miss this important gathering!

Register today for Leaning into Our Resilience and Adapting Our Way at http://conta.cc/2bLObvp1.

12 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

C

L

I

M

A

T

E

C

H

A

N

G

E

New EPA Report Shows Impacts of Climate Change

The EPA released a report that shows compelling and clear evidence of long-term changes to our climate, and highlights impacts on human health and the environment in the United States and around the world.

The report, Climate Change Indicators in the United States, features observed trend data on 37 climate indicators, including U.S. and global temperatures, ocean acidity, sea level, river flooding, droughts and wildfires.

“With each new year of data, the signs of climate change are stronger and more compelling,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “This report reiterates that climate change is a present threat and underscores the need to reduce greenhouse gas pollution and prepare for the changes underway, to protect Americans’ health and safeguard our children’s future.”

The report shows:• Carbon Dioxide Levels – Average annual carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has

exceeded 400 parts per million for the first time in at least 800,000 years.• Temperatures – Average surface air temperatures have risen across the U.S. since 1901.• Sea level – Sea level (relative to the land) rose along much of the U.S. coastline between

1960 and 2015.• Coastal Flooding – Nearly every city with a long-term measurement site has

experienced an increase in tidal flooding since the 1950s.• Arctic Sea Ice – March sea ice reached the lowest extent on record in 2015–2016.• Marine Species Distribution – Marine fish and invertebrate species along U.S. coasts

are shifting northward and moving deeper in the ocean.• Ragweed Pollen Season – Warmer temperatures and later fall frosts are increasing the

length of ragweed pollen season.This fourth edition of the report provides additional years of data for previously-published indicators and adds seven new indicators. The report also features a special section highlighting the many connections between climate change and human health.

The EPA partners with more than 40 data contributors from various government agencies, academic institutions, and other organizations to develop the climate change indicators. Each indicator and the report in its entirety were peer-reviewed by independent experts.

To review the Climate Change Indicators report, http://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators.

Over the past century, some parts of the United States have warmed up to 3.5° F. Is your area hotter? Go to http://go.usa.gov/xTcuQ.

EPA Climate Change and Water NewsEPA Climate Change and Water News is a biweekly newsletter from the EPA’s Office of Water that covers climate change and water-related news from EPA, other U.S. federal agencies and partners. To learn more about climate change impacts on water resources, visit our website at http://go.usa.gov/xDSVV.

- 13

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

More than 20 Tribes in Region 10 Have Completed a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment and/or Adaptation Plan

Tribes are uniquely impacted by climate change. Many are already experiencing climate change impacts that threaten physical safety, access to clean water, economy, traditional foods, and medicinal plants. Some are losing sacred sites and traditional lifeways that have been interconnected with native plants and animals since time immemorial.

In light of these changes, some tribes are completing climate change vulnerability assessments and developing climate change adaptation plans to respond to their findings. More than 20 tribes in EPA Region 10 have completed a climate change assessment and/or adaptation plan, and many more are in the process.

A listing of completed climate change vulnerability assessments and adaptation plans can be found online at http://tribalclimateguide.uoregon.edu/adaptation-plans.

EPA Fact Sheets on Climate Change, Health, and Populations of Concern

Climate change threatens human health, including mental health and access to clean air, safe drinking water, nutritious food and shelter. All Americans, at some point in their lives, are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Some people are more affected by climate change than others because of factors like where they live; their age, health, income, and occupation; and how they go about their day-to-day life.

Understanding the threats that climate change pose to human health can help us work together to lower risks and be prepared. The fact sheets on the below website highlight the health impacts of climate change at different stages of life and for certain populations of concern. Go to https://www3.epa.gov/climatechange/impacts/health/factsheets.

Climate Science DigestClimate Science and Observations State of the climate released by American Meteorological Societyhttp://bit.ly/2blrJ8s

NOAA tool to plan for climate changehttp://go.usa.gov/xDsJA

Climate trends continue to break recordshttp://go.usa.gov/xDsSe

At the Poles and in Alaska NASA science flights target melting Arctic Sea ice http://go.usa.gov/xDsh5

Climate change may already be shifting clouds toward the poles http://n.pr/2bM2j7Z

As glaciers melt in Alaska, landslides follow http://nyti.ms/2bFZF4N

Continued

C

L

I

M

A

T

E

C

H

A

N

G

E

14 -

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter Month 2016

ImpactsBirds with nowhere to go http://bit.ly/2bluqXu

Mapping the health threat of wildfires under climate changehttp://bit.ly/2bTyiR8

Climate change is raising peat fire risk http://bit.ly/2c2kBlG

Adaptation/MitigationCO2 can be stored underground for 10 times the length needed to avoid climatic impact http://bit.ly/2bWaNX4

Debate needed on 1.5 C temperature target http://bbc.in/2bmwDrw

How growing sea plants can help slow ocean acidification http://bit.ly/2bV6AV7

Climate Change Webinars, Conferences and Trainings For a calendar of climate change and water-related trainings, conferences, and webinars, visit http://go.usa.gov/xg84F

This newsletter contains information from multiple sources including tribes, newspapers, and other sources. Any information or opinions in this newsletter do not necessarily represent the views of the United States or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Calendar of Conferences & EventsSeptember14 – 15 2nd Annual Tribal Leaders Summit on Climate Change: Leaning into Our Resilience, Silver

Reef Casino, Ferndale, WA. Hosted by Tulalip Tribes and ATNI. CONTACT: Sono Hashisaki • 206-300-5058 • sono@springwood-usa.com • To register, go to http://conta.cc/2bLObvp1

19 – 23 Combined Integrated Solid Waste Management Planning AND Sustainable Solid Waste Management Training Anchorage, AK. CONTACT: April Reed-McCoy • 907-717-4754 • areed@zendergroup.org For more information, go to http://zendergroup.org/sw.html

20 Environmentally Triggered Asthma in Tribal Communities – EPA Region 9 and ITEP, Webinar 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time. • Priyanka Pathak • 415-972-3576 • pathak.priyanka@epa.gov or Mansel Nelson • 928-523-1275 • mansel.nelson@nau.edu To register, go to http://bit.ly/2bMTOt8

26 2016 White House Tribal Nations Conference, Washington, D.C. Additional details to be announced at http://go.usa.gov/xDw7F

26 – 29 West Coast Salmon Summit, Seven Feathers Hotel and Casino Resort,Canyonville, OR. 541-888-5591 or 707-972-4851 • http://www.salmonsummit.org

- 15

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter 1991-2016 • 25 Years September 2016

September27 – 29 Waste Diversion Strategies and Tribal Food Sovereignty, Minneapolis, MN.

Course limited to 20 participants. Applications due September 9. Todd Barnell • 928-523-3840 • todd.barnell@nau.edu http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Training/training_waste

27– 30 Introduction to Tribal Air Quality (Level 1), Flagstaff, AZ. Patricia Ellsworth • 928-523-6721 • patricia.ellsworth@nau.edu http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Training/training_air

October1 Certificate in Tribal Relations, Portland State University, Portland, OR.

Contact Don Sampson • 541-215-2753 • tribalg1@pdx.edu or Christian Marsh • 503-341-2754 • cmarsh@pdx.edu For more information, go to http://www.pdx.edu/tribal-gov/certificate

5 – 6 2016 Children’s Environmental Health Summit, Anchorage, AK. Registration deadline is September 5. http://bit.ly/2aBYnaV

18 – 20 Future of Our Salmon Conference, Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR. http://bit.ly/2aferLC

18 – 20 Indoor Air Quality in Tribal Communities – Promoting Healthy Homes, Mt. Pleasant, MI • Patricia Ellsworth • 928-523-6721 • patricia.ellsworth@nau.edu • For more information, go to http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/Training/training_air

24 – 28 Alaska Tribal Conference on Environmental Management, Hilton Hotel, Anchorage, AK • 907-729-3430 • http://www.atcemak.com

25 Leveraging Resources for Brownfields Revitalization: Meet the Funders, EPA Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization. Webinar at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. To register: http://bit.ly/2bp2MgW

31 – Nov. 3 National Non-Point Source Training Workshop, Omni Parker Hotel, Boston, MA. Kristen McQuaide • 978-349-2514 • kmcquaide@neiwpcc.org

November2 – 4 The Mining Lifecycle: Tribal Engagement and Environmental Responsibility,

Phoenix, AZ. http://www.ntmw.org

29 – Dec. 2 BIA’s 26th Annual Tribal Provider Conference, Anchorage, AK http://biaprovidersconference.com

For more information on EPA tribal trainings, webinars, grants and opportunities for tribal consultation, visit http://www2.epa.gov/tribal

Region 10 Tribal Newsletter

Vol. 25 No. 8 – September 2016

United States Environmental Protection Agency

REGION 10 TRIBAL PROGRAM 1200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, TTAU-202 Seattle, WA 98101-3140

Got News?The Region 10 Tribal Newsletter invites you, our readers, to submit ideas and articles for consideration and to share your successes and challenges. Photographs are also welcome as separate files in jpeg or other graphic format. Please submit articles and pictures to: Don Creek EPA, 805 SW Broadway, Suite 500 Portland, Oregon 97205

� 503-326-5015 � email creek.don@epa.gov

Helpful LinksR10 Tribal Programs: http://www2.epa.gov/tribal/region-10-tribal-program

EPA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPARegion10

Follow us @EPAnorthwest on Twitter! https://twitter.com/EPAnorthwest

To report environmental violation tips and complaints to the EPA: www.epa.gov/tips

EPA Region 10 Tribal Trust and Assistance Unit Staff

Sally Thomas, Unit Manager ......................... 206-553-2102

ALASKATodd Bender, Tribal Coordinator ................. 206-553-0344Katherine Brown, Tribal Coordinator .......... 206-553-7263Susan Conbere, Tribal Coordinator ............. 206-553-6243Michelle Davis, Tribal Coordinator .............. 907-271-3434Santina Gay, Tribal Coordinator ................... 907-271-3413JR Herbst, Tribal Consultation Specialist ..... 206-553-2116Sherry Kimmons, Tribal Coordinator ........... 907-271-6322Nica Klaber, Tribal Coordinator.................... 206-553-2570Mahri Lowinger, Tribal Coordinator ............ 907-271-6334Michael Ortiz, Tribal Coordinator ................ 206-553-6234Neverley Shoemake, Tribal Coordinator ..... 907-271-3206Cathy Villa, Tribal Coordinator..................... 907-271-1270

IDAHO, EASTERN & CENTRAL WASHINGTON, AND EASTERN OREGONJim Zokan, Tribal Coordinator ................... 208-378-5691

WESTERN & CENTRAL OREGON, SOUTHWEST WASHINGTONDon Creek, SEE ......................................... 503-326-5015

NORTHWEST WASHINGTONWestley Foster, Tribal Coordinator ........... 206-553-1604Alan Moomaw, Tribal Coordinator ........... 360-753-8071

Report Spills and AccidentsNote these emergency numbers to call in the event of hazardous material spills or accidents. Alaska ...................................................800-478-9300 Idaho ....................................................800-632-8000Oregon ................................................800-452-0311Washington .........................................800-258-5990 National (EPA) ......................................800-424-8802