Georgia Army National Guard Environmental Stewardship Branch Newsletter Volume 5, Issue 4 Our Mission The Georgia Department of Defense Environmental Stewardship Branch exists to support Commanders and their Mission by reducing environmental liabilities and promoting the US Army Environmental Stewardship Program.
Our Vision Commanders maintaining readiness while acquiring the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions that protect and conserve today’s resources for tomorrow’s National Guard Soldiers and Citizens of Georgia.
Changing Colors of Fall! ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP BRANCH STAFF Dania
Aponte
Environmental Programs Director
(678) 569-6707
dania.g.aponte.nfg@mail.mil
Eric
Andresen
Environmental Assessor - Central GA/ Deputy (678) 569-6745 HW Program Coordinator
eric.c.andresen.nfg@mail.mil
Richard
Batten
Air & Water Program Coordinator
(678) 569-3970
richard.a.batten.nfg@mail.mil
Randy
Drummond
Compliance Program Manager
(678) 569-6750
randy.m.drummond.nfg@mail.mil
Frances
Grieme
eMS Program Coordinator/ETSS
(678) 569-6749
frances.h.grieme.nfg@mail.mil
Michael
Holloway
Environmental Assessor - Cumming
(678) 569-9266
michael.holloway3.mil@mail.mil
Towanna Isaacs
Recycling Program Coordinator
(678) 569-6752
towanna.s.isaacs.mil@mail.mil
Tangy
Johnson
Environmental Assessor - Ft. Stewart
(678) 569-9267
tangy.s.johnson.nfg@mail.mil
Felicia
Nichols
NEPA & Cultural Resources Program Manager/ (678) 569-6755 CNGC Assessor
felicia.a.nichols2.nfg@mail.mil
Kathryn
Norton
Energy & Sustainability Program Manager
(678) 569-6726
kathryn.f.norton.nfg@mail.mil
Megan
Spells
Environmental Assessor – Tifton/eMS Awareness Coordinator
(678) 569-8458
megan.e.spells.nfg@mail.mil
~Clay National Guard Center- 1000 Halsey Avenue, Building 70, Marietta, GA 30060~ October 2015
Page 2
CFMO-ENV Ongoing Projects and Activities for 2015
The CFMO-Environmental team has continued to strive towards keeping the Georgia Army National Guard ready and on track with environmental stewardship! You will find some informative articles to broaden your environmental knowledge. See below for interesting updates on the developments that have taken place over the past months and what new things are coming our way. Compliance Program: Looking ahead to the next external assessment—Pages 3 & 4 Energy Program: Read about the Energy Exchange Conference—Page 5 Environmental Management System: A Good Environmental Read—Page 6 Natural & Culture: Leaf Watch and Colors—Pages 7 & 8 Recycling Program: Continued Efforts —Pages 9 & 10 Air & Water Program: FOG and your facility —Pages 11 & 12 EPAS Are you ready? - Page 13
“Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” ~Andrew Carnegie~
Page 3
Compliance Program
Looking Ahead As we finish another fiscal year, it is an appropriate time to look at what to expect for the upcoming year. For the GaARNG Environmental Compliance Team, our primary focus for the first half of the fiscal year will be preparation for an external assessment that’s scheduled for the week of 18 April 2016. Army National Guard Bureau’s Environmental Division (ARNG-ILE) conducts what is called an External Environmental Performance Assessment System (EPAS) visit to every one of the 54 States and Territories every three to five years. They hire a contractor who brings in teams of experts in various fields of environmental regulation and typically conduct assessments on 25% of our facilities. Maintenance facilities and large Headquarters sites, such as Clay National Guard Center, comprise the bulk of that list of facilities, but there are always a few Readiness Centers in the mix. The process is called an “assessment” because it is not intended to be an “inspection.” There is no “pass” or “fail.” Grades are not given, but the overall assessment does reflect how effective the compliance processes are in each State. The assessment identifies the compliance status of each facility as a “snapshot in time.” The primary goal is not to find as many “gigs” as possible, but to identify any issue that is not in line with an environmental regulation.
Page 4
Compliance Program, (cont’d)
As previously mentioned , this visit is not an inspection, nor are the Quarterly Assessments conducted at our facilities by the Regional Environmental Assessors. When a regulator shows up, whether they are from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), or the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GaEPD), the assessment they conduct is an actual inspection. Regulators compare conditions at a facility with the exact wording of every Federal and State rule, law, and regulation, as do we. But, the regulators are not interested in who was responsible, why, or why not an issue exists. To a regulator, it is either right or wrong, and they have the authority to issue citations and potential fines. Our job through both the External EPAS conducted by ARNG and the Internal Assessments conducted by our office, is to identify issues prior to the arrival of any regulator at a facility to conduct an inspection. But, in order to prevent issues from recurring or becoming a statewide problem, we are interested in not just the compliance status of a facility, but also how and why any issues of non-compliance occur. ARNG and our assessments look at the “root cause” in order to identify if we are missing something in our training courses, our checklists, our communication of what is required, our not knowing about a certain regulation, or that we have a misunderstanding of a particular interpretation of a regulation. We are confident that the Compliance Team has a strategic plan in place to have an assessment that reflects a compliance program that is proactive, efficient, and demonstrates the regulatory proficiency and professionalism of our personnel. POC: Randy M. Drummond, REM, at randy.m.drummond.nfg@mail.mil or W: (678) 569-6750 Cell: 404-796-0781 “The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand.” ~Vince Lombardi~
Page 5
Energy & Sustainability Program
2015 ENERGY EXCHANGE AND ANNUAL ENERGY MANAGEMENT REPORT The GAARNG Energy Program Manager had the opportunity to attend the 2015 Energy Exchange in Phoenix, AZ, August 10-14. This was an opportunity to attend Army Energy-specific training as well as coordinated classroom learning sessions on various topics in the energy field. Topics fell within one of several specific program ‘tracks’ including: ‘Agency Energy Manager,’ ‘Energy Technologies,’ ‘Sustainability,’ ‘Project Financing,’ ‘Integrated Energy,’ ‘Building Performance,’ and ‘Energy Leadership.’ While the exchange was an opportunity to learn more about the technologies and best management practices that are driving advancements in energy efficiency and renewable energies, it was also an opportunity to engage with other Army Energy Managers on challenges specific to our roles within our organizations. The exchange was also beneficial in that upcoming projections of dollar amounts anticipated for energy funds within the FY16 were discussed, as well as, the upcoming Annual Energy Management Reports (AEMR) and subsequent ‘pushed-up’ deadlines for Army Energy and Water Management Reporting System Quarter 4 reporting. Under the new Executive Order 15693, ‘Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade,’ the baseline year for energy use intensity data moves to FY15 and the target date for obtaining 2.5% reduction has moved out to through the end of FY25. Therefore, extra vigilance is required in reporting Army energy data in the AEWRS system as this fiscal year sets the new baseline for comparison. The AEMR suspense has been set at 23OCT and the close of AEWRS reporting set at 31OCT.
DID YOU KNOW? Heating water can account for 14 to 25 percent of the energy consumed in your home. Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F) and save energy (and avoid a surprise faucet-scalding).
Other interesting news received at the Energy Exchange was a predicted upsurge in energy funds for the upcoming fiscal year. With a strong history of implementing all energy projects agreed upon and funded by National Guard Bureau (NGB), GAARNG is well-positioned to receive a portion of those funds. GAARNG Energy Program anticipates utilization of much of that funding towards additional solar PV projects and other renewable energies in the following fiscal year, as the requirement for renewable energy generation has been ambitiously maintained at a target of 25% of all energy consumed produced through renewables by 2025, and 30% of all electric energy, specifically, produced by renewables by 2025. POC: Kathy Norton, EMIT, Energy Program Manager at kathryn.f.norton2.nfg@mail.mil or (678) 569-9726.
Page 6
Georgia Environmental Management System (GeMS)
Environmental Book Review The Future of Life - Release date: 2002 By: Edward O. Wilson I spent several days listening to Edward O. Wilson’s, “The Future of Life” on audio book. I will be honest, for the first 5 minutes or so, I thought this book was going to be a slow listen. If you are easily thrown off track, just skim the preface where Mr. Wilson begins with a letter to a notable naturalist, Henry David Thoreau. Just beyond a very nice preface, Edward O. Wilson provides an interesting, and at points, truly heart wrenching tale. In this book, Wilson takes his readers through a world of biodiversity. He goes from microbial organisms, like the extremophiles, to the more high profile mega fauna. Wilson delves into topic such as, habitat loss, population and its limits, extinctions, and animal abnormalities just to name a few. This book at points had me alternately crying real tears and then expressing joy for successful rehabilitation efforts. The author took me through some really depressing environmental findings, facts and figures of what Earth could be and what is already happening. But Wilson followed with solutions to the issues that we, as inhabitants of this planet, currently face and will see in the future. With this informative and fascinating book, Wilson sent me into a chasm of sorrow just before informing me that the world is full of caring intelligent individuals. If we work hard and work together it will be alright. POC: Megan Spells, GeMS Awareness Coordinator, at megan.e.spells.nfg@mail.mil or 678-569-8458.
“You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.” ~Edward O. Wilson~
Page 7
Natural & Cultural Resources
Georgia Department of Natural Resources
“When will the leaves change?” is the question park rangers hear most often once cooler temperatures arrive. Only Mother Nature knows for sure, but peak color in Georgia is usually toward the end of October or early November. To help leaf peepers find the best scenery, Georgia’s State Parks offer an online “Leaf Watch” travel planner, found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/leafwatch. Beginning in October, regular updates will keep travelers posted on how fall color is progressing across Georgia’s Blue Ridge. The website is filled with top trails and overlooks, mountain cabins and campsites, fall events, and safe hiking tips. Shutterbugs are encouraged to post their favorite shots to the Georgia State Parks Facebook page and Instagram. Georgia’s top state parks for leaf watching include Amicalola Falls, Black Rock Mountain, Cloudland Canyon, F.D. Roosevelt, Fort Mountain, Moccasin Creek, Red Top Mountain, Smithgall Woods, Sweetwater Creek, Tallulah Gorge, Unicoi, Victoria Bryant and Vogel. For quieter getaways, visitors may want to explore parks further south, which can offer pretty autumn color as well. The key for most vibrant color is warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Georgia’s State Parks offer a variety of accommodations where leaf peepers can stay in the heart of autumn scenery. Park guests can choose from fully equipped cabins, modern campsites and even yurts – a “glamping” trend that is like a tent-cabin. Georgia State Parks’ most sought-after accommodations are often reserved 13 months in advance, and most fill up on weekends. Guests are encouraged to make plans as early as possible or visit during weekdays. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275 or at GeorgiaStateParks.org/reservations.
Page 8
Natural & Cultural Resources, (cont’d)
POC: Felicia Nichols, Environmental Biologist, at felicia.a.nichols2.nfg@mail.mil or (678) 569-6755.
Page 9
Recycling Program
With Success Comes Improvement CNGC recycling program has been a success at single stream recycling. Since the program started (October 2014), we have recycled over 36 tons of materials. This is over double what has been accomplished in the past. Great job to those who have contributed to our success. The effort put forth by many is greatly appreciated. We have made significant progress but we are still looking for 100% participation. With success, we must also look at ways of improvement. As we move into the new fiscal year we must continue or recycling efforts and awareness of what is recyclable. Recycling cross-contamination (e.g. co-mingling recycling and trash) diminishes the process of recycling. It converts recycled materials back into trash due to the contamination of the materials by oils and other trash residues. Let’s make it a point to... “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle!” Here are some pointers on how we can accomplish the three Rs.
REDUCE:
Buy products that do not have a lot of packaging. Some products are wrapped in many layers of plastic and paperboard although, not needed. You can also look for things that are packed in materials that don't require a lot of energy or resources to produce. Some products will put that information on their labels. Automobiles use energy and generate pollution. Some ways to reduce the environmental damage caused by vehicles include: carpooling, walking, taking the bus, or riding your bike instead of driving. Start a compost bin. Some people set aside a place in their yard where they can dispose of certain food and plant materials. Over time, the materials will break down through a natural process called decomposition. The compost is good for the soil in your yard and means less garbage will go to the landfill. Reduce waste by using a computer. Many newspapers and magazines are online now. In stead of purchasing the paper versions, purchase an online version. Also, remember to print only what you need. Save energy by turning off lights that are not needed. Save water by turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth.
Page 10
Recycling Program (cont’d)
REUSE: Instead of throwing things away, try to find ways to use them again. Bring cloth sacks to the store with you instead of taking home new paper or plastic bags. You can use these sacks again and again. You'll be saving some trees.
Plastic containers and reusable lunch bags are great ways to take your lunch to school/work without creating waste.
Coffee cans, shoe boxes, margarine containers, and other types of containers people throw away can be used to store things or can become fun arts and crafts projects. Use your imagination!
Do not throw out clothes, toys, furniture, and other things that you do not want or need. Somebody else can probably use them. Bring them to a center that collects donations, give them to friends, or have a yard sale.
Use all writing paper on both sides. Use silverware and dishes instead of disposable plastic utensils and plates. Store food in reusable plastic or glass containers.
RECYCLE: Many of the things we use every day, like paper bags, soda cans, and milk cartons, are made out of materials that can be recycled. Recycled items are put through a process that makes it possible to create new products from the used materials. In addition to recycling the things you buy, you can help the environment by buying products that contain recycled materials. Many brands of paper towels, garbage bags, greeting cards, and toilet paper, to name a few, will tell you on their labels if they are made from recycled materials. In some towns you can leave your recyclables in bins outside your home, and a truck will come and collect them regularly. Other towns have recycling centers where you can drop off the materials You have collected. Items, such as paper and plastic grocery bags, plastic and aluminum cans and bottles can often be brought to grocery stores for recycling.
Environmental Regional Assessors
Page 11
Air & Water Program
FOG and Your Facility What do you know about FOG? Here is a clue: Every kitchen throughout the GAARNG will have to address this environmental hazard. FOG stands for Fats, Oils, and Grease – primarily related to the cooking of meals. Proper disposal of fats, oils, and grease helps to protect your facility, public health, and the environment. FOG buildup over time and can clog sewer and drainage pipes, resulting in messy overflows that can temporarily shut down facilities and require costly repairs.
So where does FOG come from? As previously stated, FOG is most prominent in the kitchen. Common sources of FOG include:
Fried Foods Cooking Meats Butter, Ice Cream, or other Dairy products Gravy and Sauces Mayonnaise and Salad Dressings
How do you dispose of FOG? Kitchen FOG belongs in the trash, approved grease removal device, or in a grease recycling container. It is important to keep FOG out of drains (both inside and outside) in order to prevent sanitary sewer overflows, drainage backups, and pollution of local waterways. Most inside drains take wastewater to the sanitary sewer system and a wastewater treatment facility. While some sinks and facilities are equipped with “Grease Traps,” these devices are designed to remove only small amounts of FOG from wastewater. Wastewater treatment facilities are unable to treat even moderate amounts of FOG, therefore, the best way to prevent backups is to stop FOG from entering the system in the first place.
Environmental Regional Assessors
Page 12
Air & Water Program, (cont’d)
A Note about Stormwater Drains: Almost all outside drains are designed to take excess rain (stormwater runoff) to pipes or ditches that lead to the nearest wetland or creek. These are NOT treated and immediately can impact the environment. Do not dump anything, including FOG, into outside drains. Dumping can greatly impact the surroundings and may even reach the nearest waterbody.
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts of FOG disposal: DO: DO: DO:
Recycle cooking grease, oil and food wastes Clean up any spills or leaks immediately using dry methods Contact CFMO if you have questions on FOG disposal or potential FOG issues.
~ ~ ~ DON’T: DON’T: DON’T: DON’T:
Dump used cooking oil down the drain. Mop or force food debris down the drain. Use hot water, detergent or degreasers to flush FOG down the drain; this pushes grease into the pipe where it will cool, congeal and clog the sewer. Dump FOG (or anything!) on the street, parking lot or into storm drains.
Source: https://www.cleanwaterservices.org/Content/Documents/Business%20and%20Industry/FOG% 20Program%20Brochure.pdf
POC: Richard Batten, Air & Water Program Coordinator at richard.a.batten.nfg@mail.mil, or (678) 569-3970.
“A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature. “ ~ Henry David Thoreau
Page 13
Environmental Regional Assessors
Environmental Performance System Assessment
ARE YOU READY?
18-22 APRIL 2016 EPAS
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” ~ Benjamin Franklin ~