Green Parcel Program makes land usable again
Studying a Potential Green Parcel Site - This Technician from EA Engineering, Science and Technology, searches for buried metal objects at a former Typhoon Transition Site.
BARRIGADA- Guam EPA’s Green Parcel Program is working to improve and potentially help redevelop under-used properties in Guam. “This Program can mean great things for communities, especially here in Guam,” said Program Manager Walter Leon Guerrero. “This is our opportunity to take underutilized properties and make
them into new economic opportunities for Guam.” The Green Parcel Program starts with identifying real properties that could be expanded, redeveloped or reused. One reason properties in the Program may not be in full use is because of the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.
PROGRAM - Pg. 3
Five parcels studied for potential reuse; two areas renovated
DEDEDO - Guam EPA is continuing to work with multiple partners to renew and revitalize areas through the Green Parcel Program. Five sites have been fully studied and prepared for reuse. An additional five sites are currently being studied and two more sites are planned. The sites all have one thing in common, they are underused because of potential, or perceived contamination. As part of Green Parcel Program the sites can be assessed and
contents
Tiyan site renovation How does the Program work?
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the possible cleanup options, if any, can be identified. FINDING SITES “Some sites have been identified and completed, meaning they are already in reuse,” said Acting Administrator Eric M. Palacios. “Other sites are in the process of being assessed and finally, we are still looking for potential sites to work on in the future.” The public will be encouraged to participate in the Guam Green Parcel Program during this year by suggestTiyan site set for study and redevelopment potential Page 3
ing sites, commenting on data and offering potential reuse potential. The Program is housed within Guam EPA and is funded by U.S. EPA. TIYAN AREA Some of the sites that are currently being studied are within the old Naval Air Station Area, or Tiyan. Study areas include the former gym and a typhoon transition site. The work is being done by EA Engineering, Science and Technology. Harmon site renovated into community sports complex Page 6
Living sustainably is my nature - Students learn weaving during an Earth Day 2012 workshop.
Earth Day focuses on conservation TIYAN - Multiple familyfriendly events are being offered as part of Earth Day 2012. The events revolve around the central theme, “It’s my nature.” The Earth Day 2012
Commenting forms and information available online Page 8
activities started on March 31, and continue to May 5. Activities include The Nature Expo, a large family event at Skinner Plaza on Saturday, April 21, with Sanctuary’s Youthfest. EARTH Pg. 6 Educational Events for families at The Nature Expo Page 2
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All living things of the Earth are one. A supplement to the Pacific Daily News, Friday, April 20, 2012
A message from the Acting Administrator Hafa Adai and thank you for reading our first edition of One Land, One Island. We hope this information will help all residents of our island look at under used properties differently. I encourage everyone to look around your village and have a vision for tomorrow. What can that old building be used for? What else could a empty lot be? As our island continues to grow in population, it is critical we utilize areas
within developed parts of Guam to the maximum extent. This preserves our pristine limestone forest and beach areas, but also encourages economic growth within communities. So take a minute this month and dream of how your village could look if we used all properties to the best of our ability. Thanks for reading. Si Yu’us Ma’ase, ERIC M. PALACIOS Acting Administrator
Guam EPA receives support grants ADELUP - Guam Environmental Protection Agency continues to receive money from U.S. EPA to identify and assess potential sites for the Green Parcel Program. The first grant for the Green Parcel Program was worth $400,000. It included two separate grants, one worth $200,000 for hazardous substances. The second is was $200,000 for petroleum assessment. COMMUNITY INPUT The hazardous substances grant funds are still being used be used for community outreach activities and continued development of a site inventory. “Making an inventory of
Land set for reuse Many Green Parcel Sites were left storage areas, or transition sites used after typhoons. The Program assesses what is at the site and then determines the best way to clean it up.
sites based on community input that we need to assess is a key part of the Green Parcel Program,” said Program Manager Walter Leon Guerrero. “These grants will help us identify sites, understand what each site includes and help the sites be used to their fullest potential.” ASSESSMENTS The money will also be used to do Phase I and, if required, Phase II environmental site assessments in at least
three of the 19 island villages. The assessment, possible cleanup and reuse of the island’s Green Parcels will enable redevelopment of these sites and create new jobs and tax revenues, which will benefit the entire island community. If an assessment reveals a site does have contamination, Leon Guerrero said there are other grants that can be given to specific cleanup projects.
Administration
Eric M. Palacios, Acting Administrator Maria Duenas, Board Secretary R. Happy Rons, Legal Counsel Connie Aflleje, Administrative Services Officer Lisa Santos, Administrative Assistant Rose Perez, Administrative Assistant Maggie Mendiola, Clerk Katrina Borja, Clerk Galo Baluran, Computer Systems Romeo Zacarias, Computer Systems Tammy Jo A. Taft, Public Information Officer
DSMOA/Brownfields Walter Leon Guerrero, Program Manager Mike Cruz, Environmental Health Specialist Ed Aranza, Planner
Air and Land Division Conchita S.N. Taitano, Division Head Peter Cruz, Air Pollution Program Mgr. Vince Pereira, Hazardous Waste Program Mgr. Roland Gutierrez, Solid Waste Program Mgr. Betwin Alokoa, Pesticide Program Mrg. Michael O’Mallan, Environmental Health Specialist Don Quinata, Environmental Health Specialist Laura Kanai, Environmental Health Specialist Glenn San Nicolas, Environmental Health Specialist Sabrina Sablan, Special Projects Coordiantor Karl Olson, Environmental Health Specialist Luong Truong, Environmental Health Specialist
Water Division Benny Cruz, Water Resources Program Mgr. Angel Marquez, Safe Drinking Water Program Mgr. Ray Calvo, Planner Margaret Aguilar, Program Coordinator Abdur Rahim, Special Projects Susan Marquez, Engineer Elvis Ventura, Engineer Francis Mendiola, Inspector Jerry Aquino, Engineer Carmencita Cortez, Engineer Edguardo Ibay, Environmental Health Specialist Johnny Abedania, Engineer Maricar Quezon, Engineer Rustico “Ogie” Joya, Engineer Helen Gumataotao, Special Projects Mateo Paet, Inspector Verony “Ron” Charfauros, Inspector Jim Farnum, Special Projects Jun Quezada, Special Projects
EMAS
Jesse Cruz, EMAS Administrator Annie Leon Guerrero, Biologist Bob Salas, Biologist Danzel Narcis, Environmental Technician Del Yanit, Chemist Rudy Paulino, Chemist
All living things of the Earth are one. A supplement to the Pacific Daily News, Friday, April 20, 2012
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Former Naval Gym area studied for possible reuse TIYAN - Guam EPA’s Green Parcel Program recently hired EA Engineering, Science, and Technology, Inc. (EA) to help study and assess potential sites for reuse. Recently EA completed a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment of the Former Naval Gym Site. The old Gym is located on the former Naval Air Station (NAS) Agana. The site is about 43 acres and is currently underdeveloped. SITE HISTORY NAS Agana was closed in 1995 and transferred to the Government of Guam in 2000. In September 2000, a 43 acre parcel south of the airport was deeded to the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). The parcel contains three areas that will be studied including: 1. A former naval gymnasium 2. A former office and Quonset area 3. A former go-cart track, maintained by the Navy in the 1960’s Typhoon Pongsona damaged the former naval gymnasium, office and Quonset areas. Other facilities currently located on this property are two baseball fields, a paint ball facility, and
tennis courts. ASSESSING THE PROPERTY The initial assessment (Phase I) of the parcel was completed in 2011, which focused on the former gym, go-cart, office, and Quonset areas. Petroleum and some metals of concern are anticipated at the former-go cart track. Pesticides were recognized as an area of concern for the office and Quonset areas. Potential issues observed at the gym included: trans-
former oil leakage, pesticides, abandoned vehicles, tires and debris piles. The initial Phase II evaluation of the parcel is focused on the former naval gym. The investigation requires collecting and testing soil for pesticides, petroleum, and compounds found in transformer oil. Some key elements of concern are constituents that contain long-lasting chlorine compounds. Asbestos and lead are also currently being evaluated due to the age of the gym. Plans to conduct a Phase II assessment for the former go-cart track, office, and Quonset areas are currently underway.
SOIL SAMPLES - Several areas, including a site in the old NAS, were used and then fell into disrepair. These sites are now being assessed for their possible reuse.
Program: Completed sites ready for use Continued from Pg. 1 The program aims to support local private, non-profit, and government landowners to clean up areas for parks, development and other uses. As part of the Program, Guam EPA inventories potential Green Parcel sites; supports environmental assessments, creates clean up plans, performs cleanup actions; and maintains of public records. Most properties that are considered Green Parcels are abandoned or publicly owned. Typically they have a small amount of contamination. For example, some sites simply have leftover typhoon waste or tire piles. These small amounts of environmental degradation can cause the parcel to be under-used. Many times, these sites are seen as more of a liability from the standpoint of a purchaser or someone interested in developing the property. The real or perceived contamination at a site can not
be the result of the current property owner’s actions. MAKING SITES NEW The Green Parcel Program aims to remove that stigma. This program began in 2002 when President George W. Bush signed into law the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitaliza-
tion Act. Under the Brownfields Law, U.S. EPA provides financial assistance to through four competitive grant programs: 1) assessment grants, 2) revolving loan fund grants, 3) cleanup grants, and 4) job training grants.
Completed Sites
Guam International Airport Authority 1) Former Aircraft Graveyard (POI-3) .1 acre Status - Completed. Phase 1 done in 2008. Phase 2 done in Oct. 2010. 2) Former GSE Maintenance Facility (POI-6).22 acre Status - Completed. Phase 1 done in 2008. Phase 2 done in Oct. 2010. 3) VQ-5 Interceptor Drainage (POI-18) .13 acre Status - Completed. Phase 1 done in 2008. Phase 2 done in Oct. 2010. Father Duenas High School 1) Monitoring Well 10 acres Status - Completed. Phase 1 done in April 2008. Phase 2 done in April 2008. Harmon Loop Road 1) Former Typhoon Transition Site 10 acres Status - Completed. Phase 1 done in May 2008. Phase 2 done in July 2010.
Special Section Site has activity that causes potential contamination
Program
Site identified for Green Parcel Program The Green Parcel Program comes in by first identifying potential sites and creating an inventory. Then, the program follows these steps: 1) Identify past uses of each site 2) Determine contamination 3) Scope and plan the cleaning and redevelopment planning process 4) Inform and engage the community
Do Phase I Assessment This is the inquiry stage or “preliminary assessment” and includes historical investigations, records review, preliminary site inspections, adjacent site inspections, and regulatory research. To do this research, scientists will complete records Review, interviews, site conditions and characteristics gathering, get information about institutional and engineering controls and finally search for recognized environmental conditions.
Do Phase II Assessment The second phase is an in-depth Site Investigation stage, with sampling collection and analysis to determine types, concentrations, and locations of contaminants. This includes a risk assessment and definition of remedial action objectives. To complete this assessment, scientists will prepare the investigation documents, do multi-media sampling, analyze the samples in a lab, compile data and do a complete risk assessment based on the lab samples.
Do Phase III Assessment
After the initial site assessments, professionals begin to analyze the cleanup options for the Green Parcel. The final phase includes community involvement and comments, identifying possible restoration plans (PRPs), treatability studies, analyzing the cleanup options, working with the local government agencies that need to be involved and how the remedial systems would be operated. After this is all done, the Green Parcel Program will choose a strategy for remediation based on outcomes from Phases I and II and dependent on the site’s level of risk. Analysis of options must consider future site use, regulatory requirements, and financial implications.
The Green Parcel Program is implemented by Guam EPA using federal funds from U.S. EPA’s Brownfields State Response Program. For more information about this process and what it is doing for Guam visit epa.guam.gov.
Finally fixing the site for redevelopment Sometimes low risk sites have future uses are banned and the contaminated area is “capped”. Some higher risk areas can be treated using a variety of remedial strategies including chemical, and biological systems. What this means that the contaminated area can be contained so that it won’t further damage the environment, or it can be treated chemically or sometimes even plant and animal life. When the contamination is fully contained or treated and the environmental danger has been eliminated, the site can then be revitalized and developed for use. This means more homes, businesses, and recreational spaces.
Tiyan Typhoon Transition Site being studied
Yigo Transition Site
Guam International Airport Authority Old Navy Supply Depot, Polaris Point Harmon Loop Transition Site Tiyan Transition site and old NAS gym Father Duenas High School Monitoring Well and Tennis Court
Apra Harbor Reservation F
Yigo Typhoon Site set for assessments YIGO - Just after Super Typhoon Pongsona hit Guam in December 2002, the Government of Guam set up several temporary collection stations across the island for residents to bring their white goods, construction debris and green waste. Some of these areas have been identified as potential Green Parcel Program sites. The super typhoon brought
much wind and rain damage to Guam. Residents cleaning up their properties brought unauthorized waste to the stations. FEMA provided the funds to transfer most of the waste off the property for final disposal. However, FEMA didn’t pay for the removal of the large piles of old automobile and truck tires; thus thousands of tires and other debris piles still remain at the sites. Phase I assessments were done at the sites. The studied evaluated potential issues onsite due to storage and subsequent burning of stockpiled tires and debris accumulated in transition areas. A tire pile that
accumulated after Typhoon Pongsona may impact soil quality and may potentially lead to fires. Guam EPA also suspects that possible petroleum and hazardous substances from the disposal of white goods and automobile batteries may have affected the ground. An initial assessment (Phase I) was completed in January 2012, which concluded that a Phase II site investigation is necessary for further identifying the nature and extent of the contamination on site. The Yigo site, owned by the Chamorro Land Trust, is currently occupied by the International Bridge Corporation, Marianas, who are working together with Guam EPA to remove tires from this area.
TIYAN - In 1995, NAS was operationally closed and in 2000 was transferred to the Government of Guam. During the process of the transfer and through investigations through the Base Realignment and Closure Program, monitoring results indicated soil and groundwater contamination. In 2002 and 2003, this area was used as a temporarily stage debris following Super Typhoon Pongsona. During the staging activities, there was a fire that burned tires and other unknown waste sitting at the site. After the fire, the site was left and never fully utilized by the Government of Guam. TESTING PROCESS In 2009, through the Green Parcel Program, EA did an Environemntal Site Assessment and found four areas of concern: 1) Trichloroethene (TCE) and tetrachloroethene (PCE) contamination in groundwater 2) Petroleum and hazardous material from the tire fire 3) Illegal solid waste disposal along the eastern edge of the property, and 4) Potential chlordane contamination around concrete slabs While Guam EPA monitored the TCE and PCE groundwater contamination, EA did a Phase II assessment to find out more about the
areas of concern outlined in the first study. EA technicians took sixteen soil samples along the edges of the concrete pads and analyzed the soil for pesticides. No pesticides were detected exceeding screening
levels. Other soil samples were taken from the former tire pile and location of the tire fire. Chromium was the only chemical detected above the screening levels. Other samples were collected from areas of debris throughout the site. Although Chromium and Lead were detected on the parcel, the levels were below the amount allowed for industrial standards. Given the Green Parcel Program hopes to use this site for industrial use, the checmials identified do not pose a hazard. PREPARING FOR REUSE The site is now being evaluated for industrial reuse. As it is a Government of Guam property, this type of study can be beneficial when determining if a property is usable.
6 All living things of the Earth are one. Pesticide Program trains and enforces
TIYAN - The Pesticide Enforcement Program is working at enforcing the new rules and regulations for their program. This includes multiple training workshops for impor-
Earth Day: Focuses on family and nature
From Pg. 1 “This event is a great way for families to learn about nature together,” said Guam EPA Public Information Officer Tammy Jo Anderson Taft. “We are so excited to see families attend these
events together. Thanks to the partners in the Environmental Education Committee, we could make these events happen for free.” There are multiple volunteer and cleanup events also offered for Earth Day. A
Upcoming Earth Day activities
tation, basic pesticide application and others. The final segments of the regulations went into effect on April 1, 2012 and are now being enforced by the program.
THE NATURE EXPO 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Skinner Plaza
Water programs aim to reduce erosion
YONA - Guam EPA’s Water Pollution Control Program is working at improving enforcement based on the regulatory and permitting system. This work will help improve protections against erosion and other potential sources of pollution. Recently, the program has been working to reduce unpermitted clearing and grading activities that pose a high risk of causing pollution. The Water Resource Management Program works
with the Pollution Program to collect groundwater data; review proposed water resource development projects; and inspect existing and underconstruction potable, irrigation, industrial, remediation and injection wells. Both of these programs work together to ensure Guam’s water resources are protected from erosion, nonpoint source pollution and other potential pollution sources.
BARRIGADA - Guam EPA’s Hazardous Waste Program is working to offer a training for owners and operators of underground storage tanks (USTs). This training is specifically for facility designated
Class A and B operators. The training is expected to be offered this summer to meet the national training requirement deadline. Annoucements will be made online, and in the newspaper.
UST training to be offered Summer 2012
Interactive environmental educational displays.
RUNNING IS MY NATURE 6 a.m. Upi Elementary Join this fun 5K run/walk in northern Guam.
PORK IN THE PARK 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Skinner Plaza
Enjoy local pork, educational displays and more.
VOLUNTEER ACTIVITES Sat. April 21 and Sun. April 22 Visit epa.guam.gov for info.
Get your copy of the Guam Recycling Guide! epa.guam.gov or call (671) 475-1658/59
Bacteria at beaches measured every week by program staff ASAN - Guam EPA’s Monitoring and Lab Analysis Division ensures that the public has good information about where to swim. This program has been collecting samples and analyzing them at beaches since the early
1970s. The results from these tests are available every week on Guam EPA’s website and via the Agency’s Twitter account. The Program tests for specific indicator bacteria. If these bacteria are present, there may
complete listing can be found at epa.guam.gov or by calling 475-1658/59. The theme of Earth Day 2012 is “It’s my Nature.” Community groups are also encouraged have their own Earth Day events.
be other, more harmful bacteria present. When a beach tests high for bacteria, the program staff indicates an Advisory by flipping open a beach sign. The sign of warning is yellow. The sign of all-clear is green.
Radon tests for home encouraged
YIGO - Guam EPA’s Air Pollution Control Program is encouraging all residents and businesses to have their homes and offices tested for radon. Radon is a naturally-occuring gas. It is also radioactive and can cause cancer. Guam EPA has limited free test kits available. Kits are also found at local hardware stores.
If homes test high, staff from Guam EPA can reccomend mitigation options to reduce exposure. This program, and the Beach Watch program are at risk of losing funding. Residents are encouraged to contact their congressional delegate to support these programs.
Water Program tests TUMON - Guam EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Program successfully offered the required Water and Wastewater Operators Exam earlier last month. More than 300 individuals registered and took the exam
at the Guam Marriott Hotel and Spa. Successfully passing the test is required for individuals working on Guam’s water or wastewater systems.
All living things of the Earth are one.
Earth Day kids page
Visit us online at www.epa.guam.gov • www.guampdn.com
A supplement to the Pacific Daily News, Friday, April 20, 2012
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Guam’s Ko’ko’ bird is endemic to our island. That means it is only found in Guam and no place else in the world. The Ko’ko’ birds are endangered because of threats like the brown tree snake and feral cats. Write in what you can you do to help protect the Ko’ko’ bird this Earth day?
Your family can see Ko’ko’ birds at the Guam Department of Agriculture or on Cocos Island in southern Guam.
color the koko bird!
A K Z Q O R M N C D R B E I H G L O I N E O E O B P C S F S O D U K F U N U N Z U A G I A D A F M O S A A S D T U J T R M A W L I E H H E G I Y R Z Z T Y D U V N U R R U L K Q U C R R F Z A M U L V O E P C T M T C E T O R P M E R E A P F K B G K V O V R D C E R D R A G
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4 - Guam has 100 of these 5 - Guam’s territorial tree 7 - Chamorro word for water
1 - Chamorro word for Ocean 2 - The world-wide holiday celebrating Environmental Protection 3 - The third planet from the sun in our Solar System 6 - A bird endemic to Guam
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All living things of the Earth are one. A supplement to the Pacific Daily News, Friday, April 20, 2012
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
PEOPLE THAT ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Help choose sites to be restored Public commenting shapes program objectives
Taking samples for information - Scientists take soil samples to get data about sites. This information helps villages make decisions about how to reuse properties.
MERIZO - Guam EPA is asking residents of Guam to comment on the direction of the Green Parcel Programs and provide suggestions for potential Green Parcel sites. “A key component of the Green Parcel Program is having the community identify sites that could possibly be revitalized,” said Program Manager Walter Leon Guerrero. “We will be having public meetings and giving many opportunities for the community to comment and suggest sites throughout the year.” The Program is funded through the administration of two U.S. EPA Brownfields assessment and clean-up grants. There is $200,000 for site assessments and outreach, and $200,000 for cleaning up sites affected by petroleum or
hazardous materials. These grants will be used for community outreach activities, site inventory, environmental site assessments, evaluation of land use initiatives, and site remediation/cleanup. GIVING INPUT Community members who know of properties where development is complicated due to potential environmental concerns, should prepare to suggest the site to Guam EPA. If the site is suggested, Guam EPA can assess the
potential of the site as a Green Parcels Project. In general, the program aims to protect health and the environment and promote economic development, new parks, or other recreational areas. IS THIS ELIGIBLE? Sites are typically eligible if: 1.The landowner is not responsible for the environmental concern. 2. The land is not current under some type of court order.
Data gathering- The Green Parcel process includes extensive data gathering and information processing to ensure the best decision about a property is made.
Mayors offices offer fact sheets and information MANGILAO - Guam EPA’s Green Parcel Program will post information sheets, commenting forms and other materials in village mayors offices this year and online at epa.guam.gov. The Green Parcels Program relies a great deal on the public making recommendations of potential sites for reuse. This Program encourages the public to be visionary about what a community could be with sites being renovation. Residents are encouraged to learn more about the Green Parcel Program and start thinking of potential sites in their community that could
be renovated through the program. There will also be information provided to members of the business community starting in the fall of the year. “Having all members of the community involved in this Program is one of the key goals,” Guam EPA spokeswoman, Tammy Jo A. Taft, stated. “We are really excited to see this grow.”
Program
Ugum watershed set for restoration project INARAJAN - Guam EPA’s Water Quality Program is partnering with NRCS and Guam’s Department of Agriculture Foresty Division to help restore part of the Ugum Watershed. The plan includes planting thousands of trees in the higher parts of the watershed to stop potential erosion.
“This large-scale project is only possible through partnership and bringing volunteers into the plan,” said Program Manager Margaret Aguilar. The team is working on finalizing the project plan. They will start recruiting volunteers in the wet season to prepare the areas for planting and reforestation.