January—February 2021 Newsletter
$220 Million for Cleanup of Navajo Nation Area Abandoned Mines
EPA has awarded three contracts for cleanup efforts at more than 50 abandoned uranium mine sites in and around the Navajo Nation. The contracts, worth up to $220 million over the next five years, were awarded to Red Rock Remediation Joint Venture, Environmental Quality Management Inc. and Arrowhead Contracting Inc. The contractors are classified as small businesses and two of the three are owned by Native Americans.
- Navajo Times: A Toxic Legacy - NNEPA Director Confirmed, $220 Million Cleanup Contracts Awarded
- News Release: EPA Awards Contracts to Three Companies for Cleanup
- Navajo Nation: Cleaning Up Abandoned Uranium Mines
The Cleaner Indoor Air During Wildfires Challenge
EPA, along with the California Air Resources Board and other partners, has launched the Cleaner Indoor Air During Wildfires Challenge.
The goal of the challenge is to solicit ideas for low-cost air cleaning technologies that reduce air pollutants in homes during wildfires or other high-pollution events. Challenge winners will receive prizes of up to $10,000.
Environmental Justice Support for a Tribe
EPA has awarded a $200,000 State Environmental Justice Cooperative Agreement grant to the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. The funding will support the development of a disaster resiliency plan, community emergency response team training and the creation of an Emergency Operations Training Center to support real-life disaster training.
- The Mendocino Voice: Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians Receives $200,000 EPA Grant
- EPA and Environmental Justice
Reducing Waste at Fire Incidents
The Forest Service National Greening Fire Team in the Pacific Southwest has been honored with a Federal Green Challenge Award for its work to achieve zero waste at all large fire incidents by 2030 and its mission of integrating sustainable best management practices into the fire community.
Protecting Aquatic Life in Hawaii
EPA has reached a settlement with Keehi Marine Inc. to resolve Clean Water Act violations involving discharge of contaminants into Honolulu’s Keehi Lagoon. Under the settlement, Keehi Marine will pay a penalty and will maintain preventative measures to reduce the discharge of pollutants like lead, zinc and copper through stormwater runoff. Such discharges harm aquatic life and sensitive coral reef ecosystems.
- Hawaii News Now: Pollution settlement reached between EPA, Keehi Marine Center
Black History Month
EPA is celebrating Black History Month by honoring some of the Black scientists and engineers who devote their careers to protecting human health and the environment.
