STRP: State & Tribal Response Plan
The focus of the program is to collaborate within the community to:
- inventory potential brownfield sites
- foster public participation in clean up and reuse of contaminated sites
- provide relevant training
- maintain a watershed-wide record of contaminated sites for the public to access
- assist with an environmental assessment of sites
I would like to extend my appreciation for the assistance provided by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, US Environmental Protection Agency, PWS Regional Citizens' Advisory Council, and Ecology and Environment, Inc. During the week of October 10, coordinated efforts between these organizations provided the expertise and resources to deliver 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher and 24-Hour Oil Spill Response training here in Cordova, Alaska. Participating in the 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher training were seven representatives from Cordova and the Native Village of Eyak. Participating in the 24-Hour Oil Spill Response training were 22 representatives from eight villages and organizations throughout Alaska. Eleven individuals from the organizations mentioned above were involved in the planning, instruction, and delivery of this course. The training was a success and we hope to expand this and have it be an annual event.
What is a Brownfield?
Brownfields are contaminated sites which could be targeted for cleanup and redevelopment. According to the EPA, a "brownfields site" is defined as real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.
Think of Brownfileds as "land recycling." We, as a community, have neglected or abandoned contaminated property that was left to ruin, and now we are trying to find new and better uses for that property.
Examples of Brownfields:
Old or illegal dumps
Abandoned canneries
Petroleum spills
Abandoned or idle structures with lead paint, asbestos or other hazardous materials
Old fuel storage areas or former gas stations
Mine scarred lands
Former military lands
Examples of Re-use scenarios:
Green space or parks
Community gardens
A new business or community center
Affordable housing
