UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES: Week of February 27 – March 3, 2023
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES/NOTICES!
NTAA Upcoming Calls
Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu if you have any questions about any call! NTAA will be transitioning to Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent with calendar invites for future NTAA work group calls.
| Woodsmoke Work Group: This work group meets Bi-Monthly and includes Tribal and EPA professionals with an interest in woodsmoke issues in Tribal communities. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday,
March 16, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| Mobile Sources Work Group: This work group meets Bi-Monthly and includes Tribal and EPA professionals with an interest in mobile source issues in Tribal communities. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday, April 6, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| Alaska Air Work Group: Join this work group to hear updates from EPA and Alaskans working on air quality. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | March 29,
10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| NTAA / EPA Air Policy Update Call: Join this monthly meeting to hear updates from EPA on important air quality and climate policy updates as well as updates around the country related to Tribal Air Programs. Calls are usually on the last Thursday of every month unless it falls on a national holiday. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday, February 23, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Work Group: This work group meets Bi-Monthly and includes Tribal and EPA professionals with an interest in indoor air quality in Tribal homes and other buildings. Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | TBD, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP)
Click Here for ITEP’s new Tribal Environmental Management and Planning Online Courses. Sign up for a self-paced course hosted by ITEP’s Waste and Response and Tribal Air Quality programs.
ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program (AIAQTP) hosts the Building Performance: Improving IAQ in Cold Climates, Residential Building Science Review, Radon Fundamentals, Quality Assurance Fundamental, Writing a Quality Assurance Project Plan, Emissions Inventory Fundamentals, and Emissions Inventory Advanced.
AIAQTP Schedule and Registration
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
NEW! You are invited to participate in EPA Region 10’s 2023 Smoke Management in the Northwest Conference.
- When: April 18-20, 2023
- Tuesday April 18, 1:30 – 5:00 pm PT, Wednesday April 19, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm PT, Thursday April 20, 8:30 am – 12:00 pm PT
- Where: Seattle, Washington in the EPA Region 10 Office and virtual via Microsoft Teams. Hotel room block information to follow.
- Who: All who are interested in issues related to wildfire smoke, forest management, air quality, and public health
- Cost: Free
- How to register: Register via Ticketleap today!
- Additional background:
- EPA Region 10, along with help from private and public partners, has grown this thriving meeting for many years to address evolving needs.
- Last year, the meeting was 100% virtual with over 300 people participating. Materials and recordings of last year’s sessions are available here.
- The meeting is an opportunity to meet and learn from professionals on air quality, land management, community engagement, public health, academic, and a range of other wildfire smoke related issues.
- There will be a mix of session formats including presentations, panel discussions, break-out sessions, and interactive exercises.
- We are planning opportunities to gather in person for food, drink, and socializing Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.
REMINDER! The Particulate Matter (PM) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) reconsideration proposal has published in the Federal Register. The public comment period is open from January 27 to March 28.
REMINDER! The Tribal Healthy Homes Network is seeking Tribal insights on the ways you are working to protect Elders when climate events impact them inside their homes (e.g., wildfire smoke, high heat, and Ozone events). Your information will help other Tribes to create solutions, and will help inform their Spring, 2023 seminar: “Climate-Ready Housing for Tribal Elders.”
Please, take 3 minutes to fill out the survey. All participants receive a $5 Amazon Gift Card, courtesy of Partnership for Air Matters. Click here to take the survey:
https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7084851/Tribal-Elders-Climate-Response-Survey
REMINDER! Nominations for candidates to participate on the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee are open!
Currently there are 2 Tribal Representatives on the Committee, Jeremy Fincher – Sac and Fox Nation, and Elizabeth Jacobs – Akwesasne Housing Authority. Natalene Cummings – Forest County Potawatomi Community, will complete the 3rd, 2-year term that is permitted at the Spring meeting of this year.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment to its Clean Air Act Advisory Committee (CAAAC). Vacancies are anticipated to be filled by August 2023. Sources in addition to this Federal Register Notice may also be utilized in the solicitation of nominees. ADDRESSES: Submit nominations in writing to: Lorraine Reddick, Designated Federal Officer, Office of Air and Radiation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460. The nomination period closes on March 30th. Electronic and mailed applications must be received by that date.
For further information or to email nominations, include in the subject line CAAAC Membership 2023 and send to caaac@epa.gov.
To talk with Natalene more about what being a member of CAAAC involves, you can reach her at 715-478-7211.
REMINDER! Hold the Date! Call for Speakers!
What: Residential Wood Smoke Training Workshop (Workshop)
When: April 11 – 13, 2023
Where: Denver, CO
Who: State, local, tribal, and federal officials, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions
Workshop topics will be wide-ranging, e.g.:
- Regulatory Programs (e.g., curtailment programs, Wood Heater New Source Performance Standard, test methods, enforcement)
- Voluntary Programs (e.g., proper operation education campaigns, recreational fires/firepits, identifying and understanding the best devices for appliance incentive programs – emphasis on heat pumps)
- Residential wood smoke and PM NAAQS
- Residential health effects, indoor air quality
- New and existing funding opportunities (e.g., Environment and Climate Justice Block Grants, tax credits, heat pump direct rebates)
- Understanding heating appliances (wood stoves, electric heat pumps) & recreational devices (fireplaces, firepits)- including field trip to a retail store
A major focus of the Workshop will include how to leverage funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (e.g., Environment and Climate Justice Block Grants, direct rebates, tax credits) and overcome barriers to encourage and incentivize the installation of heat pumps in homes currently using wood as their primary or secondary source of heat.
Unlike past years, the workshop will not be held in conjunction with the Hearth, Patio and Barbeque Association Trade Show/Expo, but we do plan to have speakers from the hearth industry and learn about various recreational and heating appliances. We are planning a 3 hour field trip to a large retail store for an opportunity to see and learn about several different types of heating appliances (EPA-certified wood stoves, pellets stoves, gas appliance and electric heat pumps) and recreational devices (fireplaces and firepits/chimeneas).
Hotel and Registration: The Workshop is planned to run from the Tuesday afternoon, (April 11) until 4:30 pm, Thursday (April 13). We intend on reserving a block of rooms at the government rate at a hotel in downtown Denver. There will be no registration cost for the Workshop.
Call for topics and speakers: EPA, with the support of the Western States Air Resources Council (WESTAR) is coordinating the Workshop. As we formulate the agenda over the next 3-4 weeks, we are requesting suggestions on specific discussion topics and critical issues you face in tackling residential wood smoke and would find valuable to discuss with your counterparts across the nation. If you have any recommendation on speakers or have an issue or program that you would be interested in presenting, please contact Larry Brockman, brockman.larry@epa.gov or 919-824-1579. Feel free to share this email with others who may have an interest and they can email me to be added to the distribution list.
REMINDER! The White House: FACT SHEET: How the Inflation Reduction Act Helps Tribal Communities
By signing the Inflation Reduction Act, President Biden is delivering on his promise to meet the climate crisis and build an economy that works for working families, including Tribal nations and American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian families. The Inflation Reduction Act lowers prescription drug costs, health care costs, and energy costs. It’s the most aggressive action we have taken to confront the climate crisis. It’ll lower the deficit and ask the super wealthy and corporations to pay their fair share. And no one making under $400,000 per year will pay a penny more in taxes. Click Here for FACT SHEET.
Climate Change / Energy
The U.S. EPA Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) has published an enhanced National Map of Landfill Gas (LFG) Energy Projects and Municipal Solid Waste Landfills. The newly published version incorporates layers for Tribal lands and environmental justice demographic data so that users can identify areas where LFG energy projects may warrant additional consideration, analysis, or outreach to surrounding communities.
Link: https://www.epa.gov/lmop/lmop-national-map
Regional Tribal Environmental Health Summits
The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to host a series of regional summits on the topic of environmental health in Indian Country. Each summit will feature Tribal leaders, environmental health practitioners, subject matter experts, and federal partners engaging on topics relevant to each region. A total of eight summits will be held between 2022 and 2024. The goal of each summit is to connect people from different backgrounds and Tribes, communities, federal agencies, Tribal organizations and state and local entities to address various environmental health and environmental justice issues of mutual concern across all regions as well as issues specific to individual regions. The first confirmed summit is May 1 – May 2, 2023, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Toxics/Mobile Sources
REMINDER! The National Transportation in Indian Country Conference (NTICC) will be held in Anchorage, Alaska, Sept. 24-28, 2023
The National Transportation in Indian Country Conference is the one-stop-shop transportation conference FOR TRIBES, BY TRIBES. NTICC offers access to relevant training and an opportunity for Tribal transportation professionals to engage with federal officials and their Tribal transportation peers regarding Tribal transportation issues and challenges.
NTICC provides information and resources for all who are committed to improving the transportation infrastructure of Indian Country and the safety of those who live, work, and travel the roadways of Alaska Native and Native American lands.
For more information and to register, visit: https://www.nticc.org/
REMINDER! EPA’s Office of Emergency Management is offering training that would be of interest to people working on air quality issues as related to emergency situations.
Overview of Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure and Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations (CAMEO) Software Suite Webinar for Tribal Partners
Participants should only register for one of the five offerings below, as all sessions will cover the same material. Please note whether times are listed in Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
| Date | Time | Registration |
| March 2, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST | Register here |
| April 6, 2023 | 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
| August 24, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
| September 7, 2023 | 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
| September 22, 2023 | 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
This hour and a half, EPA-hosted session will provide a basic overview of the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure oil spill prevention program and how the Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations (CAMEO) software suite can be used to help communities prepare for and respond to chemical and oil spills. The session will also include a question-and-answer segment where participants can interact with the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure national program manager and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act program coordinator that oversees the CAMEO software suite.
REMINDER! Announcing the 2023 National Air Toxics Conference April 18-20, 2023 for your consideration for attending and/or presenting!
More details are available at the website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/save-the-date-2023-national-air-toxics-conference-tickets-473488295237.
Opportunity to provide input: the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a proposed rulemaking to review the Clean Air Act (CAA) New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and Emission Guidelines (EG) for the Large Municipal Waste Combustors (LMWCs) source category (40 CFR part 60 subpart Eb, and 40 CFR part 60, subpart Cb, respectively). Pursuant to the EPA’s Policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes, the Agency is initiating pre-proposal consultation with federally recognized Indian tribes to obtain input on the upcoming action to update regulatory requirements for the Large Municipal Waste Combustors (LMWCs). If you are interested in requesting government-to-government consultation with EPA during the pre-proposal period, please contact Regina Chappell at (919) 541-3650 or email at chappell.regina@epa.gov. Please contact us before February 3, 2023, to request the consultation. EPA will strive to accommodate the requests as time and resources permit. Tribes may also submit OFFICE OF AIR QUALITY PLANNING AND STANDARDS written comments at https://www.regulations.gov/
Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2022-0920, any time during the pre-proposal tribal consultation process and until June 6, 2023. If there are any questions, please email Charlene Spells at Spells.Charlene@epa.gov Additional background information about the air regulations for LMWCs can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/stationary-sources-air-pollution/large-municipal-waste-combustors-lmwc-new-source-performance
Indoor Air Quality
Notice of Intent – DOE Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities – $80 million
Deadline: Available until expended. Eligible Entities: Consortium of One Local Education Agency and one or more Schools, Non-Profits, For-Profits, and Community Partners
This funding is the first tranche of funding in a $500 million investment, to make clean energy improvements in K-12 public schools. Funds will empower school districts to make upgrades that will lower facilities’ energy costs and improve student learning environments. Visit HERE for more information.
Available Now: An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes Webinar Recording
EPA’s Indoor Environments Division recently hosted a webinar to provide an overview of the key basic facts of radon – what it is, what it does to us, how we measure it, how we reduce our exposure, and where to find resources and additional information. A recording of An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes is now available online. The recorded webinar features a presentation by Bruce Snead, Director of Engineering Extension at Kansas State University, and director of the National Radon Program Services effort for EPA since 2009.
EPA: A Fact Sheet for Tribes on State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants
EPA’s Indoor Environments Division is pleased to announce the State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program Fact Sheet. This fact sheet has information on SIRG eligibility, matching requirements, allowable activities, EPA contacts, and more. EPA works collaboratively and values our Tribal partnership to support healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in Tribal communities. We work together to develop tools and resources that address the health and the safety of Tribal members when it comes to indoor air quality.
Please visit the Indoor Air Quality in Tribal Communities or State Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program and Resources pages to learn more and download the fact sheet.
Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!
Environmental Justice
EPA Environmental Justice recordings and meeting materials for all calls are posted here:
https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/national-environmental-justice-community-engagement-calls.
NOW HIRING!
NEW! Cultural Landscape Specialist
Come join the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community as a Cultural Landscape Specialist. In this role, you will be responsible for managing landscapes of cultural significance and directly oversees management of edible and medicinal landscaping, prairies, and maintained landscape around Hocokata Ti. Enjoy weekly pay, career growth opportunities, and health benefits.
REMINDER! JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT Engineering Technician – DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Indian Health Service Office of Environmental Health & Engineering
Closing date: March 3, 2023
Summary: This position is located in the Office of Environmental Health at the District or one of its Field Offices. The primary function of the incumbent is to assist the engineering staff to perform technical duties related to the construction of water and waste facilities. Position may require infrequent travel. Works under the supervision of the District Engineer or Field Engineer, depending upon work location. To view this announcement, please visit the websites listed below: ESEP/MP: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/693089700
DE: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/693089500
For further information on the position located in Polacca, AZ, please contact: David Bates, Engineer (228) 364-2500 OEH&E – Hopi Field Office david.bates@ihs.gov drdavidbates1@gmail.com
or Andrew Larson, Engineer OEH&E – Hopi Field Office (928) 737-6283 andrew.larson@ihs.gov
We are seeking to fill the vacant position located on the Hopi reservation in Polacca, AZ
REMINDER! The following positions are open for the Prairie Island Indian Community
Applications can be found on their website under Employment & Opportunities http://www.prairieisland.org
Food Systems Specialist
Invasive Species Coordinator
Water Resources Specialist
REMINDER! The Department of Religious Studies is hiring an 1855 professorship in the position of Great Lakes Anishinaabe Knowledge, Spiritualities, and Cultural Practices.
Applications closes: July 8, 2024, | Click Here for Full Job Description
The Department of Religious Studies is hiring an 1855 professorship in the position of Great Lakes Anishinaabe Knowledge, Spiritualities, and Cultural Practices. We seek a scholar with a focus on Anishinaabe communities, and more broadly, Great Lakes Native American cultures. The scholar’s areas of interest should include Anishinaabe worldviews, ceremony, knowledge systems, and communal cultural practices in the context of colonialisms, resistance, resiliency, and sovereignty. The specific area of focus is open with preference to knowledge of traditions of Anishinaabe communities, and more broadly, Native American communities. We are particularly interested in scholars whose work and teaching complement cross-university strengths in environmental practices, North American Indigenous Law, communal health and wellness, and social justice. In keeping with our land-grant mission, we seek a scholar engaged in public-facing conversations about how contemporary Native American knowledge, language, spiritualities, and culture can inform larger discussions around law, public policy, land stewardship, resource management, community health and wellbeing, Tribal governance, museum collections and archives, and environmental justice movements.
RESOURCES AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES: Week of February 27 – March 3, 2023
RESOURCES & FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES!
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
REMINDER! Recognizing the ever-increasing availability of air sensors, expanding user base, and growing scientific knowledge, the US EPA updated the popular Air Sensor Guidebook, originally published in 2014. The refreshed version, called “The Enhanced Air Sensor Guidebook”, includes updated content and new topics that incorporate best practices, current knowledge, and recommendations to guide the use of air sensors. The Guidebook can help sensor users learn about: the basics of air quality, air pollution monitoring, and air sensors; planning and conducting an air quality monitoring study; the selection, setup, and use of air sensors; and analyzing, interpreting, communicating, and acting on results.
REMINDER! Selections for the ARP Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring Competitive Grant
EPA selected 132 projects, in 37 states, to receive a total of $53.4 million to conduct ambient air monitoring of pollutants in communities across the country with environmental and health outcome disparities stemming from pollution and the COVID-19 pandemic. EPA will start the process to award the funding by the end of 2022, once the grant applicants have met all legal and administrative requirements. This table can be sorted by clicking on each column header. A downloadable version is available HERE.
EPA Resource: EPA is pleased to announce that we have updated our Local Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool and our Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool.
Updates include:
- Revised Emissions & Generation Resource Integrated Database (eGRID) factors from through 2020, as available.
- Updated default stationary energy emission factors and heat contents from the latest Climate Registry, EPA GHG Emissions Factor Hub, and US Inventory publications.
- Global Warming Potential (GWP) values are now editable on the Factors tab. The bottom of the Control Sheet tab also contains new guidance on updating the GWP values and a navigation button to the GWP Entry section on the Factors tab.
Download the updated local community and government operations tool and users’ guides.
Download the updated tribal community and government operations tool and users’ guides.
Find our State Inventory and Projection Tool and additional State and Tribal greenhouse gas data and resources here.
EPA Resource: EPA’s Home Heating Fuel Use Web App
Are you curious about how people heat their homes? EPA has developed a Home Heating Fuel Use Web App that lets you visualize American Community Survey 5-year average home heating fuel data across the U.S. by census tract. Use this data to inform outreach or implementation planning related to energy efficiency, residential electrification, wood stove change-outs, and more.
EPA Resource: EPA’s Tracking Matrix
Does your community have climate goals to meet or brownfields that might be suitable for solar? Check out EPA’s Tracking Matrix to learn more about geothermal, biomass, solar and wind installations being built on contaminated lands across the country. EPA’s RE-Powering America’s Land Initiative 2022 Tracking Matrix shows current trends in the development of renewable energy on contaminated lands. Project examples include successful community solar projects in Nashville, Tennessee; Schenectady County, New York; Morrisville, Vermont; and Spanish Fork, Utah.
Tribal Air Quality Flag Program Packet
Customize this flyer/poster template to share information with your community about air quality, how it can affect health, and actions to take on a bad air quality day.
You may need a PDF reader to view files on this page. See EPA’s About PDF page to learn more. Tribal Air Quality Flag Program Packet
Department of Energy (DOE) Announces $32 Million to Reduce Methane Emissions from Oil and Gas Sector
All interested applicants must register and submit application materials through Fed Connect; register here for an account. All questions must be submitted through FedConnect.
Air Monitoring Equipment Available for Loan to State, Local, and Tribal Agencies
In 2021, EPA’s Office of Research and Development initiated the Wildfire Smoke Air Monitoring Response Technology (WSMART) Pilot, loaning air monitoring technologies to state, local, and Tribal air organizations to support supplemental air monitoring in areas affected by wildfire smoke and with observational data coverage gaps. During 2022, this pilot technology loan program will continue to provide several technology types – including stationary air sensor systems and a compact mobile monitoring system – to state and local air agency monitoring staff and professional Tribal air quality staff members upon request. The equipment is not available for public use. For more information and access to the loan request webform, please visit the WSMART website:https://www.epa.gov/air-sensor-toolbox/wildfire-smoke-air-monitoring-response-technology-wsmart-pilot
For technical questions, please contact smoketech@epa.gov.
Climate Change/Energy
NEW! EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: noncompetitive planning grants webinar for tribes, tribal consortia, and U.S. Territories
March 9,2023 10 AM AKST, 11:00 AM PST, 12:00 PM MST, 1:00 PM CST, 2:00 PM EST
Description: EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will provide noncompetitive planning grant opportunities for Federally recognized Tribes, tribal consortia, and U.S. Territories interested in participating in the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program. The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program will provide grants to states, territories, tribes, air pollution control agencies, and local governments to develop and implement plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution. Section 60114 of the Inflation Reduction Act provides an investment of $5 billion to support these efforts to develop and implement strong, local greenhouse gas reduction strategies. This two-staged grant program provides funding of $250 million for noncompetitive planning grants, and $4.6 billion for competitive implementation grants. The CPRG program will provide significant resources to state, territory, local, and tribal governments to develop ambitious climate action and air pollution reduction plans and to implement measures from those plans. EPA is working to release the program guidance for planning grants as soon as March 1. This webinar is intended specifically for tribes, tribal consortia and U.S. Territories and will be recorded and posted to https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/climate-pollution-reduction-grants
Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Speakers:
- Jennifer Macedonia, Associate Deputy Assistant Administrator for Implementation, Office of Air and Radiation
- Megan Brachtl, Associate Director, Air Quality Policy Division, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Office of Air and Radiation
- Pat Childers, Tribal Program Manager, Office of Air and Radiation
Register Now: https://nau.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvcOugrz8qE9dVkv2vwBF5aj4FlOoCK9a7
EPA’s State and Local Climate and Energy Program will use this newsletter to share updates and opportunities as they become available and to let you know how the EPA’s IRA programs can help your jurisdiction.
Our monthly funding newsletter will also continue to provide information on climate and clean energy grant and technical assistance opportunities and deadlines for state, local, and Tribal governments. You can also visit the White House’s website about clean energy and climate action in the IRA. Use it to learn how you can save on utility bills, get support to purchase electric vehicles, energy-efficient appliances, and more. Share the news: Tax Credits for Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades have been Extended!
Under the IRA, federal tax credits for energy-efficient home upgrades have been extended. This means that if you made any qualifying home improvements to your primary residence after December 31, 2021, you may be eligible to claim credit on your federal taxes when you file for 2022. Qualifying upgrades include ENERGY STAR-certified products, as well as improvements to your home’s envelope or exterior – such as windows, doors, and insulation. To learn more, read through ENERGY STAR’s property tax credit guidance.
Renewable Energy tax credits have also been extended and will be available through the end of 2023. These include incentives for Geothermal Heat Pumps, Residential Wind Turbines, Solar Energy Systems, and Fuel Cells.
What’s New for Federal Tax Credits in 2023? There will be new efficiency tax credits in place starting January 1, 2023, lasting 10 years – through 2032. The tax credit amount is generally limited to 30% of the project cost. The previous lifetime cap of $500 has been changed to an annual cap of $1,200 to $2,000 depending on the efficiency improvements you make. This means you will be able to claim credit for more projects, especially if they are spread out over multiple years.
For more information and to stay up to date on available tax credits, make sure to bookmark ENERGY STAR’s page on Federal Tax Credits so you can maximize savings on your home energy efficiency projects.
Toxics/Mobile Sources
U.S. Department of Energy: Electric Vehicles with Final Assembly in North America
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-169) amended the Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit (IRC 30D), now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit, and added a new requirement for final assembly in North America that took effect on August 17, 2022. For more details on the credit, see Electric Vehicle (EV) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Tax Credit. Also see the full list of alternative fuel vehicle incentives amended or created by the Inflation Reduction Act. Click Here for more information.
Indoor Air Quality
Resource for Healthy Indoor Air Quality:
Check out the website https://forhealth.org/ for many resources related to healthy homes and indoor air quality!
The Tribal Healthy Homes Network (THHN) has a webpage dedicated to Funding Opportunities! Additionally, THHN has developed a Funding Guide for American Indian and Alaska Native Communities.
Environmental Justice
REMINDER! The 2023 EJ Government-to-Government Program (EJG2G) Request for Applications is NOW OPEN!
EPA is soliciting applications for projects that transform overburdened and underserved communities into healthy, thriving communities capable of addressing the environmental and public health challenges they have historically faced, as well as current and future challenges. Applications must show successful partnerships with community-based nonprofit organizations (CBOs) and other stakeholders (e.g., local businesses and industry, medical service providers, academia, etc.) to develop solutions that will significantly address disproportionate environmental and public health harms related to pollution and climate change at the state and local level.
The EJG2G Program anticipates awarding approximately $70,000,000 of funding through 70 cooperative agreements nationwide, organized in four tracks of funding as follows:
- $20,000,000 annual appropriations for States partnering with CBOs proposing projects for up to $1 million each. Approximately 20 awards for up to 1 million each are anticipated under this track.
- $20,000,000 of Inflation Reduction Act appropriations for tribal governments partnering with CBOs proposing projects for up to $1 million each. Approximately 20 awards for up to 1 million each are anticipated under this track.
- $20,000,000 of Inflation Reduction Act appropriations for local governments partnering with CBOs proposing projects for up to $1 million each. Approximately 20 awards for up to 1 million each are anticipated under this track.
- $10,000,000 annual appropriations for U.S. Territories, Freely Associated States, Puerto Rico, and tribes in remote areas proposing projects for up to $1 million each. Approximately 10 awards for up to 1 million each are anticipated under this track.
Cooperative agreements will be funded for a three-year performance period.
Note on Inflation Reduction Act Appropriations: EPA cannot extend the performance periods for EJG2G assistance agreements utilizing Inflation Reduction Act fundings beyond three years. Consistent with section 138(b)(2) of the Clean Air Act, applications submitted in response to this funding opportunity that will receive must address one of the following five broad categories:
- community-led air and other pollution monitoring, prevention, and remediation, and investments in low- and zero-emission and resilient technologies and related infrastructure and workforce development that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants;
- mitigating climate and health risks from urban heat islands, extreme heat, wood heater emissions, and wildfire events; climate resiliency and adaptation;
- reducing indoor toxics and indoor air pollution; or
- facilitating engagement of marginalized communities in Local, State and Federal public processes, such as advisory groups, workshops, and rulemakings.
To apply for this opportunity, view the RFA on Grants.gov. Applications packages must be submitted on or before April 10, 2023, at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time). Applicants should plan for projects to begin on October 1, 2023. For more information, please visit: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/environmental-justice-government-government-program
Newsletters, Calendars, and Recorded Webinars
Webinars that may be of interest:
Reducing Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Construction Materials Prioritization and Environmental Data Improvement
March 2, 2023 2–3:30 p.m. EST
This webinar will ask for feedback on how to prioritize construction materials and products and how to improve data on embodied greenhouse gas emissions through measurement, standardization, transparency and reporting criteria.
Register for the March 2, 2023 webinar.
Reducing Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Grants and Technical Assistance for Environmental Product Declarations
March 22, 2023 2–3:30 p.m. EST
This webinar will ask for feedback on new grant and technical assistance programs to help business calculate and report the greenhouse gas emissions data for construction materials and products though Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
Registration to come.
Reducing Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Carbon Labeling
April 19, 2023 2–3:30 p.m. EST
This webinar will ask for feedback on how the EPA should develop a new carbon labeling program for construction materials and products and products with substantially lower embodied greenhouse gas emissions.
Registration to come.
Join NCAI’s Climate Action email listserv here!
Sign up for the Alliance for Green Heat’s newsletter!
To view and/or receive ITEP’s Climate Change newsletter, click here!
ITEP’s Tribal Air Quality Media Space Channel. Recent webinars include an Introduction to Air Quality Programs, Emissions Inventories, Remote Professional Assistance, and Woodstoves in Indian Country. Older classics include a series on Air Quality Planning for Wildland Smoke, Tribal Air Program and Grants, Data Management, and the Clean Air Act.
ITEP’s Tribes and Climate Change Calendar includes conferences, trainings, webinars, and other events related to Tribes and climate change.
ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program newsletter, Native Voices
EPA Tools and Resources Webinar Series
Click here to see all past and upcoming webinars hosted by the EPA.
Information for IRA and other competitive grants https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DsRrod7XKk
EPA Rules from the Federal Register can be found here: https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/environmental-protection-agency
EPA’s Community and Tribal Programs Group – Tribal Actions and Events calendar
This calendar is also linked under the “Tribal Air and Climate Resources” webpage under the “Policy and Planning” heading available at https://www.epa.gov/tribal-air. The purpose of the calendar is to ensure that our Tribal partners are kept apprised of EPA activities that are relevant to them. If you have any questions about the calendars or any recommendations on how EPA can improve upon the calendars, please do not hesitate to reach out to Amanda Kaufman (Kaufman.Amanda@epa.gov) with any feedback.
To view and/or receive ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program newsletter, Native Voices, click here!
Recorded Webinars
Looking for more information check out the Tribal Air Quality Media Space Channel. Recent webinars include an Introduction to Air Quality Programs, Emissions Inventories, Remote Professional Assistance, and Woodstoves in Indian Country. Older classics include a series on Air Quality Planning for Wildland Smoke, Tribal Air Program and Grants, Data Management, and the Clean Air Act.
OLDER UPDATES!
Updated Version of EPA’s Air Sensor Guidebook Released!
Recognizing the ever-increasing availability of air sensors, expanding user base, and growing scientific knowledge, the U.S. EPA updated the popular Air Sensor Guidebook, originally published in 2014. The refreshed version, called “The Enhanced Air Sensor Guidebook”, includes updated content and new topics that incorporate best practices, current knowledge, and recommendations to guide the use of air sensors.
The Enhanced Guidebook supports users in planning and collecting air quality measurements using air sensors. The Guidebook can help sensor users:
- Learn the basics of air quality, air pollution monitoring, and air sensors
- Plan and conduct an air quality monitoring study
- Select, setup, and use air sensors
- Analyze, interpret, communicate, and act on results
- Understand the basics of air sensor performance
Find out more and access the Enhanced Air Sensor Guidebook.
Visit EPA’s Air Sensor Toolbox.
Find out more about EPA’s Air Research.
Air Knowledge E–Learning Content
The Air Knowledge training team is pleased to announce the availability of new air quality training materials!
These e-learning courses and modules are at the foundational learning level and are available to Tribal, state, and local air agencies through our learning management system (LMS) and to the public here. The website was recently enhanced to provide additional self-instructional and instructor-led training materials.
The new materials include:
- A course that explains key historic events that led to air pollution control legislation and describes progress made with air pollution control since the passage of the Clean Air Act,
- A course that explains the basic components of state and Tribal implementation plans,
- A module that generally defines the transport and fate of air pollutants and how transport and fate are influenced by meteorology and topography,
- A module that explains the basic aspects of an air emissions inventory, and
- A module that explains the purposes and types of air emissions inventories, including the inventories that the EPA develops.
To access the courses and modules on the LMS (https://epaapti.csod.com), Tribal air agencies and organizations can register, log in, and refer to the “What’s New” section on the home page. All other users (the public, international community, academia, industry, EPA staff, etc.) can access the courses and modules on the Air Knowledge interim website.
Follow up on the second session of the Million Hearts Climate Change and Cardiovascular Disease Collaborative, Interventions to Address Particle Pollution and Heart Disease. You can access a recording of the session here (passcode: W$Bb8t*!)
Helpful links/resources from the chat
- Look at differences in air quality across cities using AirCompare – https://www3.epa.gov/aircompare/#home
- Learn more about air quality trends at https://www.epa.gov/air-trends
- Learn more about indoor air quality and steps that can be taken in home, schools, and other buildings at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
- More information on using air cleaners in homes is available at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/air-cleaners-and-air-filters-home
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PHOTOS FROM THE FIELD: Week of February 20 – 24, 2023
PHOTOS FROM THE FIELD
Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023, @ 12:00 PM PT/3:00 PM ET. Join Zoom Meeting Link with Meeting ID: 882 1584 7769 and Password: 323550 or to find your local number: Click Here.
Click here for more information on ITEP’s Tribal Clean Transportation Program.
REMINDER! Greetings from the TAMS Center! Call for nominations for the Virgil Masayesva Environmental Excellence Award is out! Further information and nomination form can be accessed at the TAMS Website.
Virgil Masayesva Tribal Air Programs Excellence Award
– https://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/tams/docs/forms/TAMS-VMAward-NomForm_2023.docx
Deadline for the VM Award Nominations – March 24, 2023
TOP STORIES/HEADLINES: Week of February 20 – 24, 2023
Acceptance letters for NTFAQ presentations/panels/workshops/trainings have been sent out! Thank you to everyone who applied. We’re looking forward to another great event.
Keep an eye out for registration early March.
Top Stories
EPA – Air Sensor Loan Programs: Promoting Air Quality Education by Bringing Sensors to You!
Native Science Report – Will Teslas Become the New Rez Car?
NACAA Washington Update – This Week in Review
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/Tribes News
American Heart Association – Mom’s exposure to air pollution, even before pregnancy, may raise baby’s heart defect risk
Psychology Today – 7 Ways to Help Protect Your Brain From Air Pollution
Toxics/Mobile Sources
E&E – EPA undoes Trump-era power plant rollback
Earthjustice – EPA Reaffirms Mercury and Air Toxics Standards will Save Lives
Autoblog – For EV drivers, realities may dampen the electric elation
Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Justice
Homes & Garden – This is what is making your home dusty, and what to do about it
Caltech – Paul Wennberg discusses gas stoves and other factors that can contribute to poor indoor air quality
E&E – Biden orders agencies: Do more on racism, environmental justice
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES: Week of February 20 – 24, 2023
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES/NOTICES!
NTAA Upcoming Calls
Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu if you have any questions about any call! NTAA will be transitioning to Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent with calendar invites for future NTAA work group calls.
| Woodsmoke Work Group: This work group meets Bi-Monthly and includes Tribal and EPA professionals with an interest in woodsmoke issues in Tribal communities. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday,
March 16, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| Mobile Sources Work Group: This work group meets Bi-Monthly and includes Tribal and EPA professionals with an interest in mobile source issues in Tribal communities. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday, April 6, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| Alaska Air Work Group: Join this work group to hear updates from EPA and Alaskans working on air quality. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | March 29,
10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| NTAA / EPA Air Policy Update Call: Join this monthly meeting to hear updates from EPA on important air quality and climate policy updates as well as updates around the country related to Tribal Air Programs. Calls are usually on the last Thursday of every month unless it falls on a national holiday. Contact Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday, February 23, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
| Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Work Group: This work group meets Bi-Monthly and includes Tribal and EPA professionals with an interest in indoor air quality in Tribal homes and other buildings. Carolyn.Kelly@nau.edu to join the call! | Thursday, February 16, 10 am AK or 2 pm ET |
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP)
Click Here for ITEP’s new Tribal Environmental Management and Planning Online Courses. Sign up for a self-paced course hosted by ITEP’s Waste and Response and Tribal Air Quality programs.
ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program (AIAQTP) hosts the Building Performance: Improving IAQ in Cold Climates, Residential Building Science Review, Radon Fundamentals, Quality Assurance Fundamental, Writing a Quality Assurance Project Plan, Emissions Inventory Fundamentals, and Emissions Inventory Advanced.
AIAQTP Schedule and Registration
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
NEW! You are invited to participate in EPA Region 10’s 2023 Smoke Management in the Northwest Conference.
– When: April 18-20, 2023
o Tuesday April 18, 1:30 – 5:00 pm PT
o Wednesday April 19, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm PT
o Thursday April 20, 8:30 am – 12:00 pm PT
– Where: Seattle, Washington in the EPA Region 10 Office and virtual via Microsoft Teams. Hotel room block information to follow.
– Who: All who are interested in issues related to wildfire smoke, forest management, air quality, and public health
– Cost: Free – How to register: Register via Ticketleap today!
– Additional background:
– EPA Region 10, along with help from private and public partners, has grown this thriving meeting for many years to address evolving needs.
– Last year, the meeting was 100% virtual with over 300 people participating. Materials and recordings of last year’s sessions are available here.
– The meeting is an opportunity to meet and learn from professionals on air quality, land management, community engagement, public health, academic, and a range of other wildfire smoke related issues.
– There will be a mix of session formats including presentations, panel discussions, break-out sessions, and interactive exercises.
– We are planning opportunities to gather in person for food, drink, and socializing Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.
NEW! 4/18-4/20: Smoke Management in the NW Conference. Hybrid, with options to join in person in Seattle and virtually via Microsoft Teams. Save the date for this wildfire smoke focused conference. More info and a registration link to come this week. Contact: Erin McTigue mctigue.erin@epa.gov
REMINDER! The Tribal Healthy Homes Network is seeking Tribal insights on the ways you are working to protect Elders when climate events impact them inside their homes (e.g., wildfire smoke, high heat, and Ozone events). Your information will help other Tribes to create solutions, and will help inform their Spring, 2023 seminar: “Climate-Ready Housing for Tribal Elders.”
Please, take 3 minutes to fill out the survey. All participants receive a $5 Amazon Gift Card, courtesy of Partnership for Air Matters. Click here to take the survey:
https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7084851/Tribal-Elders-Climate-Response-Survey
REMINDER! Nominations for candidates to participate on the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee are open!
Currently there are 2 Tribal Representatives on the Committee, Jeremy Fincher -Sac and Fox Nation, and Elizabeth Jacobs – Akwesasne Housing Authority. Natalene Cummings – Forest County Potawatomi Community, will complete the 3rd, 2-year term that is permitted at the Spring meeting of this year.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment to its Clean Air Act Advisory Committee (CAAAC). Vacancies are anticipated to be filled by August 2023. Sources in addition to this Federal Register Notice may also be utilized in the solicitation of nominees. ADDRESSES: Submit nominations in writing to: Lorraine Reddick, Designated Federal Officer, Office of Air and Radiation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460. For further information or to email nominations, include in the subject line CAAAC Membership 2023 and send to caaac@epa.gov.
If you want to talk with Natalene more about what being a member of CAAAC involves, you can reach her at 715-478-7211.
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP’s) will be hosting public listening sessions starting in February for its new program for Tribal Clean Transportation
U.S. DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) representatives will also present a brief overview of NREL’s technical support for Tribal Clean Transportation. ITEP will ask attendees simple questions, and your answers will help set the course for ITEP’s work on Tribal Clean Transportation for the next several years. The session agenda will be repeated at each of the four sessions to provide multiple opportunities to attend and provide your feedback. You can attend one or more session as you wish.
Listening Sessions will be held every Wednesday, February 15th, and 22nd @ 12:00 PM PT/3:00 PM ET
Meeting ID: 882 1584 7769
Password: 323550
Find your local number: Click here
NEW! Hold the Date! Call for Speakers!
What: Residential Wood Smoke Training Workshop (Workshop)
When: April 11 – 13, 2023
Where: Denver, CO
Who: State, local, tribal, and federal officials, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions
Workshop topics will be wide-ranging, e.g.:
- Regulatory Programs (e.g., curtailment programs, Wood Heater New Source Performance Standard, test methods, enforcement)
- Voluntary Programs (e.g., proper operation education campaigns, recreational fires/firepits, identifying and understanding the best devices for appliance incentive programs – emphasis on heat pumps)
- Residential wood smoke and PM NAAQS
- Residential health effects, indoor air quality
- New and existing funding opportunities (e.g., Environment and Climate Justice Block Grants, tax credits, heat pump direct rebates)
- Understanding heating appliances (wood stoves, electric heat pumps) & recreational devices (fireplaces, firepits)- including field trip to a retail store
A major focus of the Workshop will include how to leverage funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (e.g., Environment and Climate Justice Block Grants, direct rebates, tax credits) and overcome barriers to encourage and incentivize the installation of heat pumps in homes currently using wood as their primary or secondary source of heat.
Unlike past years, the workshop will not be held in conjunction with the Hearth, Patio and Barbeque Association Trade Show/Expo, but we do plan to have speakers from the hearth industry and learn about various recreational and heating appliances. We are planning a 3 hour field trip to a large retail store for an opportunity to see and learn about several different types of heating appliances (EPA-certified wood stoves, pellets stoves, gas appliance and electric heat pumps) and recreational devices (fireplaces and firepits/chimeneas).
Hotel and Registration: The Workshop is planned to run from the Tuesday afternoon, (April 11) until 4:30 pm, Thursday (April 13). We intend on reserving a block of rooms at the government rate at a hotel in downtown Denver and will make that available along with a Workshop online registration site in a couple weeks? There will be no registration cost for the Workshop.
Call for topics and speakers: EPA, with the support of the Western States Air Resources Council (WESTAR) is coordinating the Workshop. As we formulate the agenda over the next 3-4 weeks, we are requesting suggestions on specific discussion topics and critical issues you face in tackling residential wood smoke and would find valuable to discuss with your counterparts across the nation. If you have any recommendation on speakers or have an issue or program that you would be interested in presenting, please contact Larry Brockman, brockman.larry@epa.gov or 919-824-1579. Feel free to share this email with others who may have an interest and they can email me to be added to the distribution list.
Updated Version of EPA’s Air Sensor Guidebook Released!
Recognizing the ever-increasing availability of air sensors, expanding user base, and growing scientific knowledge, the U.S. EPA updated the popular Air Sensor Guidebook, originally published in 2014. The refreshed version, called “The Enhanced Air Sensor Guidebook”, includes updated content and new topics that incorporate best practices, current knowledge, and recommendations to guide the use of air sensors.
The Enhanced Guidebook supports users in planning and collecting air quality measurements using air sensors. The Guidebook can help sensor users:
- Learn the basics of air quality, air pollution monitoring, and air sensors
- Plan and conduct an air quality monitoring study
- Select, setup, and use air sensors
- Analyze, interpret, communicate, and act on results
- Understand the basics of air sensor performance
Find out more and access the Enhanced Air Sensor Guidebook.
Visit EPA’s Air Sensor Toolbox.
Find out more about EPA’s Air Research.
Smoke, Air, Fire, Energy (SAFE) Symposium – Rural and Tribal Community Resilience Strategies for Action Day-long symposium on March 1st, 2023, that will bring together Tribal leaders, researchers, and practitioners who are working on the interrelated topics of wildfire smoke, air quality, fire risk, and clean energy solutions. The goal is enhancing climate resilience of rural and Tribal communities. There is no cost to attend this event. Click HERE for more information and RSVP HERE.
REMINDER! The White House: FACT SHEET: How the Inflation Reduction Act Helps Tribal Communities
By signing the Inflation Reduction Act, President Biden is delivering on his promise to meet the climate crisis and build an economy that works for working families, including Tribal nations and American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian families. The Inflation Reduction Act lowers prescription drug costs, health care costs, and energy costs. It’s the most aggressive action we have taken to confront the climate crisis. It’ll lower the deficit and ask the super wealthy and corporations to pay their fair share. And no one making under $400,000 per year will pay a penny more in taxes. Click Here for FACT SHEET.
Air Knowledge E–Learning Content
The Air Knowledge training team is pleased to announce the availability of new air quality training materials!
These e-learning courses and modules are at the foundational learning level and are available to Tribal, state, and local air agencies through our learning management system (LMS) and to the public here. The website was recently enhanced to provide additional self-instructional and instructor-led training materials.
The new materials include:
- A course that explains key historic events that led to air pollution control legislation and describes progress made with air pollution control since the passage of the Clean Air Act,
- A course that explains the basic components of state and Tribal implementation plans,
- A module that generally defines the transport and fate of air pollutants and how transport and fate are influenced by meteorology and topography,
- A module that explains the basic aspects of an air emissions inventory, and
- A module that explains the purposes and types of air emissions inventories, including the inventories that the EPA develops.
To access the courses and modules on the LMS (https://epaapti.csod.com), Tribal air agencies and organizations can register, log in, and refer to the “What’s New” section on the home page. All other users (the public, international community, academia, industry, EPA staff, etc.) can access the courses and modules on the Air Knowledge interim website.
Climate Change / Energy
NEW! EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: Introductory webinar for state, territory, tribal, and local governments
As part of the Administration’s commitment to move quickly to implement the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), EPA is working at an accelerated pace to share information about the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG). The CPRG program will provide significant resources to state, territory, local, and tribal governments to develop ambitious climate action and air pollution reduction plans and to implement measures from those plans. The CPRG is a two-stage program – with $250 million in non-competitive planning grants coming soon, followed by $4.6 billion of competitive implementation grants.
EPA will hold a webinar at 2 p.m. Eastern time, Wednesday February 15, 2023, for state, territory, tribal and local governments to provide general information on the CPRG. EPA is working to release the program guidance for planning grants as soon as March 1. This guidance will be focused specifically on the $250 million non-competitive planning grants portion of the program. Later this year, EPA will issue a separate notice of funding opportunity regarding the implementation grants, which will be awarded under a competitive process.
EPA is designing a CPRG program that will provide flexible support to state, territory, tribal, and local governments regardless of where they are in their climate planning and implementation process. Programs and projects included in plans could further goals and policies for clean energy, energy efficiency, and other measures to reduce greenhouse gas air pollution across various sectors of the economy. Recipients will also have the flexibility to use the planning grant money in the ways that best achieve these outcomes – from program development to staffing and contractor support.
EPA will host an hour-long webinar at 2:00 PM Eastern time Wednesday February 15, 2023. Registration is required. Please register at https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/climate-pollution-reduction-grants#CPRG-Webinars. The webinar will also be recorded and posted to the website.
WEBINAR INFORMATION
|
TITLE: EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: Introductory webinar for state, territory, tribal, and local governments
DATE: Wednesday, February 15, 2023
TIME: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Eastern time) The webinar will also be recorded and posted to the website.
WHERE: Registration is required. Registration is available at https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/climate-pollution-reduction-grants#CPRG-Webinars |
More information on the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants
Sign up for notifications about the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants
The U.S. EPA Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) has published an enhanced National Map of Landfill Gas (LFG) Energy Projects and Municipal Solid Waste Landfills. The newly published version incorporates layers for Tribal lands and environmental justice demographic data so that users can identify areas where LFG energy projects may warrant additional consideration, analysis, or outreach to surrounding communities.
Link: https://www.epa.gov/lmop/lmop-national-map
Regional Tribal Environmental Health Summits
The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to host a series of regional summits on the topic of environmental health in Indian Country. Each summit will feature Tribal leaders, environmental health practitioners, subject matter experts, and federal partners engaging on topics relevant to each region. A total of eight summits will be held between 2022 and 2024. The goal of each summit is to connect people from different backgrounds and Tribes, communities, federal agencies, Tribal organizations and state and local entities to address various environmental health and environmental justice issues of mutual concern across all regions as well as issues specific to individual regions. The first confirmed summit is May 1 – May 2, 2023, in Anchorage, Alaska.
More details here
Toxics/Mobile Sources
REMINDER! EPA’s Data Mapping and Analyses to Identify US Locations with High Lead Exposures Webinar: February 15, 2023 @ 12pm/PT 3pm/ET
https://usepa.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_b4SX9qOpSfOwacHnf3TjqQ
NEW! The National Transportation in Indian Country Conference (NTICC) will be held in Anchorage, Alaska, Sept. 24-28, 2023
The National Transportation in Indian Country Conference is the one-stop-shop transportation conference FOR TRIBES, BY TRIBES. NTICC offers access to relevant training and an opportunity for Tribal transportation professionals to engage with federal officials and their Tribal transportation peers regarding Tribal transportation issues and challenges.
NTICC provides information and resources for all who are committed to improving the transportation infrastructure of Indian Country and the safety of those who live, work, and travel the roadways of Alaska Native and Native American lands.
For more information and to register, visit: https://www.nticc.org/
NEW! EPA’s Office of Emergency Management is offering training that would be of interest to people working on air quality issues as related to emergency situations.
Overview of Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure and Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations (CAMEO) Software Suite Webinar for Tribal Partners
Participants should only register for one of the five offerings below, as all sessions will cover the same material. Please note whether times are listed in Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
| Date | Time | Registration |
| March 2, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST | Register here |
| April 6, 2023 | 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
| August 24, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
| September 7, 2023 | 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
| September 22, 2023 | 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT | Register here |
This hour and a half, EPA-hosted session will provide a basic overview of the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure oil spill prevention program and how the Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations (CAMEO) software suite can be used to help communities prepare for and respond to chemical and oil spills. The session will also include a question-and-answer segment where participants can interact with the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure national program manager and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act program coordinator that oversees the CAMEO software suite.
For more information on CAMEO, please see:
- CAMEO
- Tier2 Submit Software
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s CAMEO website
REMINDER! Announcing the 2023 National Air Toxics Conference April 18-20, 2023 for your consideration for attending and/or presenting!
More details are available at the website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/save-the-date-2023-national-air-toxics-conference-tickets-473488295237.
The second session of the Million Hearts Climate Change and Cardiovascular Disease Collaborative, Interventions to Address Particle Pollution and Heart Disease took place last week. You can access a recording of the session here (passcode: W$Bb8t*!)
Helpful links/resources from the chat
- Look at differences in air quality across cities using AirCompare – https://www3.epa.gov/aircompare/#home
- Learn more about air quality trends at https://www.epa.gov/air-trends
- Learn more about indoor air quality and steps that can be taken in home, schools, and other buildings at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
- More information on using air cleaners in homes is available at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/air-cleaners-and-air-filters-home
- EPA’s Air Sensor Toolbox has a lot of helpful information on using air sensor technology – https://www.epa.gov/air-sensor-toolbox
The recently updated Air Sensor Guidebook has a lot of information on using sensors outdoors and indoors – https://www.epa.gov/air-sensor-toolbox/how-use-air-sensors-air-sensor-guidebook
Opportunity to provide input: the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a proposed rulemaking to review the Clean Air Act (CAA) New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and Emission Guidelines (EG) for the Large Municipal Waste Combustors (LMWCs) source category (40 CFR part 60 subpart Eb, and 40 CFR part 60, subpart Cb, respectively). Pursuant to the EPA’s Policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes, the Agency is initiating pre-proposal consultation with federally recognized Indian tribes to obtain input on the upcoming action to update regulatory requirements for the Large Municipal Waste Combustors (LMWCs). If you are interested in requesting government-to-government consultation with EPA during the pre-proposal period, please contact Regina Chappell at (919) 541-3650 or email at chappell.regina@epa.gov. Please contact us before February 3, 2023, to request the consultation. EPA will strive to accommodate the requests as time and resources permit. Tribes may also submit OFFICE OF AIR QUALITY PLANNING AND STANDARDS written comments at https://www.regulations.gov/
Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2022-0920, any time during the pre-proposal tribal consultation process and until June 6, 2023. If there are any questions, please email Charlene Spells at Spells.Charlene@epa.gov Additional background information about the air regulations for LMWCs can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/stationary-sources-air-pollution/large-municipal-waste-combustors-lmwc-new-source-performance
Indoor Air Quality
New! Upcoming Webinar from the American Lung Association Radon Testing in Schools: State Protocols and Resources
Date: Feb. 28, 3:00-4:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Register today for a free webinar about radon testing in schools from the American Lung Association. The webinar will feature a panel of experts in states that have regulatory and non-regulatory protocols in place for testing schools for radon. Presenters will discuss how they worked with schools within their states and will share resources for participants to learn more.
The target audiences for this webinar are state and county partners, non-profit organizations and school administrators who are looking to implement radon testing protocols for schools.
Notice of Intent – DOE Grants for Energy Improvements at Public School Facilities – $80 million
Deadline: Available until expended. Eligible Entities: Consortium of One Local Education Agency and one or more Schools, Non-Profits, For-Profits, and Community Partners
This funding is the first tranche of funding in a $500 million investment, to make clean energy improvements in K-12 public schools. Funds will empower school districts to make upgrades that will lower facilities’ energy costs and improve student learning environments. Visit HERE for more information.
Available Now: An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes Webinar Recording
EPA’s Indoor Environments Division recently hosted a webinar to provide an overview of the key basic facts of radon – what it is, what it does to us, how we measure it, how we reduce our exposure, and where to find resources and additional information. A recording of An Introduction to Radon Gas in Homes is now available online. The recorded webinar features a presentation by Bruce Snead, Director of Engineering Extension at Kansas State University, and director of the National Radon Program Services effort for EPA since 2009.
EPA: A Fact Sheet for Tribes on State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants
EPA’s Indoor Environments Division is pleased to announce the State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program Fact Sheet. This fact sheet has information on SIRG eligibility, matching requirements, allowable activities, EPA contacts, and more. EPA works collaboratively and values our Tribal partnership to support healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in Tribal communities. We work together to develop tools and resources that address the health and the safety of Tribal members when it comes to indoor air quality.
Please visit the Indoor Air Quality in Tribal Communities or State Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program and Resources pages to learn more and download the fact sheet.
Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!
Environmental Justice
REMINDER! National Environmental Justice Community Engagement Call: February 21, 2023
EPA invites Environmental Justice (EJ) advocates to participate in the next National Environmental Justice Community Engagement Call taking place on February 21, 2023 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time). These calls are free and open to the public.
Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/epa-natl-environmental-justice-community-engagement-call-feb-21-2023-registration-526119556757
Agenda:
- EPA Office Environmental Justice External Civil Rights (OEJECR) Leadership Updates
- External Civil Rights Presentation (ECR)
- Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Updates
The purpose of these calls is to inform the community and other stakeholders about EPA’s EJ work and enhance opportunities to maintain an open dialogue with EJ advocates.
Please email farrell.ericka@epa.gov by February 16, 2023 to request reasonable accommodation for a disability or interpreter services in a language other than English, so that you can participate in the call and/or to request a translation of any of the event documents into a language other than English.
For more information about the National Environmental Justice Community Engagement Calls, please email farrell.ericka@epa.gov
Recordings and meeting materials for all calls are posted here: https://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/national-environmental-justice-community-engagement-calls.
NOW HIRING!
NEW! A vacancy announcement for a GS-12/13 Senior Tribal Air Quality Planner with EPA Region 10 opened today on USAJOBS. The announcement is open to all U.S. citizens. This vacancy announcement will remain open through February 17. This position is being filled through the Office of Personnel Management’s government-wide direct-hire authority.
This Physical/Life Scientist position supports the promulgation and implementation of Region 10’s Federal Air Rules for Reservations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington (FARR) and is a grants project officer. This position is located in the Region 10 Air and Radiation Division in the Air Planning & State/Tribal Coordination Branch, in Seattle, WA, Boise, ID, Lacey, WA, or Portland, OR. Job Announcement # CIN-ZX-ODH-2023-0014: USAJOBS – Job Announcement
NEW! EPA’s OEJECR is Hiring an Office Director!
EPA’s Office of Community Support (within the new Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights) is hiring an Office Director/ Supervisory Environmental Protection Specialist. This announcement closes on February 21, 2023.
In this role, you will:
- Provide direction, guidance, and oversight to staff with respect to coordinating all environmental justice (EJ) grant programs and EJ community support activities;
- Plan, organize, and direct the activities of the Office of Community Support in administering environmental protection programs focused on enhancing environmental quality for under-served and disenfranchised communities;
- Exercise supervisory personnel management responsibilities.
You will spend less than 25% of your work time on contracts, grants/cooperative agreements, and/or interagency agreements.
One or more positions may be filled (in the organization advertised and/or in other organizations), if appropriate to the position.
Learn more and apply here: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/705520700
NEW! JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT Engineering Technician – DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Indian Health Service Office of Environmental Health & Engineering
Closing date: March 3, 2023
Summary: This position is located in the Office of Environmental Health at the District or one of its Field Offices. The primary function of the incumbent is to assist the engineering staff to perform technical duties related to the construction of water and waste facilities. Position may require infrequent travel. Works under the supervision of the District Engineer or Field Engineer, depending upon work location. To view this announcement, please visit the websites listed below: ESEP/MP: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/693089700
DE: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/693089500
For further information on the position located in Polacca, AZ, please contact: David Bates, Engineer (228) 364-2500 OEH&E – Hopi Field Office david.bates@ihs.gov drdavidbates1@gmail.com
or Andrew Larson, Engineer OEH&E – Hopi Field Office (928) 737-6283 andrew.larson@ihs.gov
We are seeking to fill the vacant position located on the Hopi reservation in Polacca, AZ
REMINDER! The following positions are open for the Prairie Island Indian Community
Applications can be found on their website under Employment & Opportunities http://www.prairieisland.org
Food Systems Specialist
Invasive Species Coordinator
Water Resources Specialist
REMINDER! The Department of Religious Studies is hiring an 1855 professorship in the position of Great Lakes Anishinaabe Knowledge, Spiritualities, and Cultural Practices.
Applications closes: July 8, 2024, | Click Here for Full Job Description
The Department of Religious Studies is hiring an 1855 professorship in the position of Great Lakes Anishinaabe Knowledge, Spiritualities, and Cultural Practices. We seek a scholar with a focus on Anishinaabe communities, and more broadly, Great Lakes Native American cultures. The scholar’s areas of interest should include Anishinaabe worldviews, ceremony, knowledge systems, and communal cultural practices in the context of colonialisms, resistance, resiliency, and sovereignty. The specific area of focus is open with preference to knowledge of traditions of Anishinaabe communities, and more broadly, Native American communities. We are particularly interested in scholars whose work and teaching complement cross-university strengths in environmental practices, North American Indigenous Law, communal health and wellness, and social justice. In keeping with our land-grant mission, we seek a scholar engaged in public-facing conversations about how contemporary Native American knowledge, language, spiritualities, and culture can inform larger discussions around law, public policy, land stewardship, resource management, community health and wellbeing, Tribal governance, museum collections and archives, and environmental justice movements.