TOP STORIES/HEADLINES: Week of January 18 – 21, 2022
Top Stories
Be sure to join today’s NTAA Informational Webinar on EPA’s Proposed Methane Rule at 2pm ET. You can register and attend NTAA’s webinar here. The 1 ½ hour webinar will include a Panel Discussion with:
- NTAA’s Ian Fisher and Laura McKelvey
- American Lung Association’s Laura Kate Bender
- Moms Clean Air Force’s Shaina Oliver and Celerah Hewes
- EDF’s Eric Kills a Hundred and Edwin LaMair
You can learn more and comment from NTAA’s Policy Resource Kits page here.
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes News
E&E News – EPA to review rules for largest source of lead in air
Indian Country Today – Tribal sovereignty ballot initiative smashes threshold
Inside Climate News – In the Latest Rights of Nature Case, a Tribe Is Suing Seattle on Behalf of Salmon in the Skagit River
Mongabay News – By cultivating seaweed, Indigenous communities restore connection to the ocean
ABC News – Low-income schools facing string of challenges after natural disasters: Report
The Hill – GOP senator blocks Biden EPA nominees over coal plant decision
Indian Country Today – Setting a climate course when politics divides
Indian Country Today – Vicious circle: Tribal broadband program hindered
Here’s your link to this week’s NACAA Washington Update
Climate Change/Energy
Reuters – How the White House hopes to save Biden’s Build Back Better bill
E&E News – DOT to allot $27B to fix bridges, ensure climate resilience
E&E News – Interior reveals plans for orphan well cleanup
E&E News – EPA tackles coal-to-crypto industry trend
Energy Wire – Power companies back EPA climate authority at Supreme Court
The Guardian – Global heating linked to early birth and damage to babies’ health, scientists find
Grist – Biden is ending Trump’s war on green appliances — but not very quickly
Reuters – Emissions set to rise with global power demand – IEA
ITEP Tribes and Climate Change Monthly Newsletter
Toxics/Mobile Sources
NBC News – California’s Salton Sea is a potential hotspot for lithium production
CNBC – How the U.S. fell behind in lithium, the ‘white gold’ of electric vehicles
The Guardian – Chemical pollution has passed safe limit for humanity, say scientists
The Verge – Bill Gates’ climate fund looks to funnel billions into carbon removal, green hydrogen, and more
Indoor Air Quality
Street Insider – Clean Air Matters; How Effective Clean Air Technology Is Becoming Essential to a Healthy Future
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES: Week of January 18 – 21, 2022
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
EPA’s Community and Tribal Programs Group has a publicly facing Tribal Actions and Events calendar for all to use!
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 Toni Colon (colon.toni@epa.gov) and/or Loren Fox (fox.loren@epa.gov) with any feedback.
NEW! Call For Proposals for the National Tribal Forum on Air Quality (NTFAQ)
May 2–5, 2022
The NTFAQ planning committee is actively seeking proposals for presentations until January 28th. Click here to submit a proposal. The NTFAQ will have a range of sessions and topics including, but not limited to:
- Case studies of tribal Air Programs
- Air Monitoring Technology
- Indoor Air Quality Studies
- Community Outreach and Engagement
- Emission Inventories
- Innovative Community Projects
- Climate Change & Air Quality etc.
For more information Contact: Andy Bessler (andy.bessler@nau.edu), Mehrdad Khatibi (mehrdad.khatibi@nau.edu), or Christopher Lee (Christopher.lee@nau.edu)
NEW! EPA has made available modeling data including projected ozone design values for 2023, 2026, and 2032 and ozone contributions in 2023 and 2026 at individual monitoring sites, nationwide. These data are based on the 2016v2 emissions platform (https://www.epa.gov/air-emissions-modeling/2016v2-platform)
While these data do not reflect any policy or regulatory decisions, EPA expects to use this information in upcoming rulemaking actions, including ozone transport actions. States could also use this information to the extent they wish to review their implementation plans with respect to interstate transport for the 2015 ozone standards. The data are available at: https://www.epa.gov/air-emissions-modeling/2016v2-platform. Interested parties can obtain the full set of modeling inputs and outputs when these data are used to support regulatory actions.
NEW! Introduction to Meteorological Monitoring | Webinar Hosted by Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP)
February 8&10, 2022 | 9am (AK), 10am (PT), 11am (MT), 12pm (Central), and 1pm (ET)
This webinar series will provide Tribal professionals basic information on meteorology and meteorological monitoring guidance for in-situ primary meteorological monitoring variables (wind speed, wind direction, temperature, humidity, precipitation, pressure, and solar radiation). The webinars will provide general information on the sensors used for in-situ measurements: measurement quality objectives, verification/calibration, and accuracy criteria, as well as guidance on siting and exposure of meteorological towers.
Webinar Topics:
Webinar 1
- Introduction to meteorology
- Interpreting wind rose from met data
Webinar 2
- Meteorological tower siting criteria and installation
- Verification/calibration of meteorological sensors
- Maintenance of meteorological sensors, towers, and supporting equipment
- Identifying appropriate uses of meteorological data
Register Now:
https://nau.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvcOGgqDIiEtftsyo6HrD30UtNPgfq7YzC
NEW! Addressing Air Quality in Tribal Communities (for Beginners)
January 25-27, 2022 | 9am-2pm PDT; 10am-3pm MDT; 12pm-5pm EDT
(2-hour session, 1-hour break, 2-hour session, Daily)
Apply Now: https://forms.gle/1S3amRpocRphTMuX7
Course capped at 12 participants
Topics:
- Identifying air quality sources and concerns in a community
- Tribal Air Program Case Studies
- Resources for tribal air quality professionals
The application is due on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance to the workshop via email by Tuesday, January 18. Those accepted to participate in the workshop will receive the Zoom link and password to join the workshop. The link and password are unique and should not be shared with others.
A Sense of Place: Indigenous Perspectives on Earth, Water and Sky featuring Larry Campbell, Swinomish Elder
Registration is open for our next webinar! Register now for our 9th webinar “A Sense of Place: Indigenous Perspectives of Earth, Water and Sky,” featuring Larry Campbell, Swinomish Elder, Thursday January 20, 2022 at 11:00 AM, Pacific Time. Space is limited so please register now.
Biden order requires net-zero federal government emissions by 2050
There will be many opportunities to heat the more rural, northern federal buildings with wood, pellets and wood chips! The US Forest Service itself has many such buildings and understands the technology and benefits.
EPA releases new report on Climate Change and Social Vulnerability in the United States: A Focus on Six Impacts
EPA’s new report quantifies the degree to which four socially vulnerable populations— defined based on income, educational attainment, race and ethnicity, and age—may be more exposed to the highest impacts of climate change. The report quantifies six types of impacts: air quality and health, extreme temperature and health, extreme temperature and labor, coastal flooding and traffic, coastal flooding and property, and inland flooding and property. Access the report. To download the report’s findings related to the disproportionate risks of climate change to American Indian and Alaska Natives. To find more information about climate change: https://www.epa.gov/climate-change
NTAA Upcoming Calls
Contact Andy.Bessler@nau.edu if you have any questions about any call! *Registration instructions* When you register for the GoToWebinar, please remember to include your Tribe, Region, or Organization in parenthesis after your last name. This allows you to see everyone on the call and prevents us from conducting a roll-call, ultimately saving everyone’s time.
| Mobile Sources Work Group: This monthly work group addresses all mobile source pollution issues. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, February 3,
2pm ET |
| STAR Work Group: Join the Status of Tribal Air work group to provide input on the report. | Wednesday,
January 25, 3pm ET |
| Wood Smoke Work Group: Join this work group every other month to address wood smoke issues in Indian Country. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, January 20,
2pm ET
|
| EPA Policy Call: Call in to hear updates from EPA on policies, actions, and tools relevant to Indian Country and Air Quality. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, January 27, 2pm ET |
| Indoor Air Quality Work Group: Join this work group every other month to help support IAQ work throughout Indian Country. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, February 17, 2pm ET |
| Alaska Air Work Group: Join this work group to hear updates from EPA and Alaskans working on air quality. Attend by clicking here. | Wednesday, January 26, 11 am AK |
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professional (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. New courses have been added, so check it out!
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
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.
ITEP’s Tribes and Climate Change Calendar includes conferences, trainings, webinars, and other events related to tribes and climate change.
EPA Tools and Resources Webinar Series
Click here to see all past and upcoming webinars hosted by the EPA.
Climate Change / Energy
NEW! Applications open for the Arctic Rivers Summit, March 2022
Scheduled to take place at the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, Alaska, March 29-31, 2022. The Summit is part of the Arctic Rivers Project funded by the National Science Foundation’s Navigating the New Arctic Program. The Summit will be an in-person workshop to discuss the current and potential future states of Alaskan and Yukon rivers and fish and how we can adapt. It will bring together up to 150 Tribal and First Nation leaders, community members, managers, and knowledge holders, academic, Indigenous, federal, state, and provincial researchers, non-governmental organizations, and others.
Applications are due by January 23, 2022. For more information, please visit the Arctic Rivers Summit website.
Save the Date: 2022 Southwestern Tribal Climate Change Summit
May 16 – 18, 2022 @ the Pala, CA | Register Here
In partnership with the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians, the Pala Band of Mission Indians, and the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, the Climate Science Alliance is excited to co-host the 2022 Southwestern Tribal Climate Change Summit (SWTCCS).
ITEP’s Climate Change Adaptation Training Courses registration is online!
Learn more about the courses and register here.
Toxics/Mobile Sources
NEW! The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is initiating consultation and coordination with federally recognized Indian tribes on Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category (the Steam Electric ELG). The Steam Electric ELG regulations cover wastewater discharges from power plants. The current rulemaking specifically focusses on wastewaters generated by coal-fired power plants. These limitations on the discharge of pollutants will subsequently be incorporated into National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, potentially reducing pollutant discharges into waters of the United States.
On July 26, 2021, EPA announced its decision to undertake a rulemaking in which the Agency will determine whether more stringent limitations and standards for coal-fired power plants are appropriate and consistent with the technology-forcing statutory scheme and the goals of the Clean Water Act.
The tribal consultation letter and consultation and coordination plan for this action are attached. These consultation materials are also available on EPA’s Tribal Consultation Opportunities Tracking System (TCOTS) website located at:https://tcots.epa.gov. Additional information on the Steam Electric ELG can be found athttps://www.epa.gov/eg/steam-electric-power-generating-effluent-guidelines.
EPA plans to hold two identical Tribal Webinars and Listening Sessions on February 1 and 9, 2022 from 1:00 – 2:30 PM Eastern Time. These webinars will be an opportunity for EPA to provide an overview of this forthcoming rulemaking and to receive input from tribal representatives about this action. To register:
- February 1 Tribal Webinar and Listening Session: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dR5Vg1NbSq-5_e0r4p2Wyw.
- February 9 Tribal Webinar and Listening Session: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_c3TOTjz-TuOIg5ABN7GN1Q.
The EPA ‘s anticipated timeline for the consultation and coordination period on this action is expected to extend from January 18, 2022 to March 29, 2022.
For any questions, please contact Richard Benware with EPA’s Office of Science and Technology by email at benware.richard@epa.gov or by phone at (202) 566-1369.
NRC invites comment on Draft Programmatic Agreement on protection of archaeological sites affected by proposed placement of mine waste repository on top of reclaimed Church Rock uranium mill tailings deposit: The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is requesting comment on a draft Programmatic Agreement (PA) between the NRC, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Navajo Nation Tribal Historic Preservation Office (NNTHPO), New Mexico State Historic Preservation Office (NMSHPO), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and United Nuclear Corporation (UNC). The purpose of this draft PA is to resolve any adverse effects to historic properties identified during consultation for a proposed license amendment application for the UNC Mill Site.
Submit comments by January 21, 2022.
> Federal Register (TBA)
> Download: Draft Programmatic Agreement , Nov. 30, 2021 (PDF)
> Access Docket ID NRC-2019-0026
Indoor Air Quality
Learn more here about the online application process, which allows you to highlight how your program emphasizes environmental management as a standard component of care. You can also access the downloadable checklist to help you through the application process. New! EPA is looking for comprehensive programs that demonstrate improved asthma outcomes, compelling financial outcomes and progress toward financial sustainability. Check out examples of successful asthma programs and previous winners in the Hall of Fame – Applications Due February 1, 2022
Have questions about your application?
Visit AsthmaCommunityNetwork.org/awards for more information, or contact us at EPALeadershipAwards@AsthmaCommunityNetwork.org
Choose the Right Portable Air Cleaner for the Home
Whether you are in the market for a portable air cleaner for your home or you were thinking about gifting one this holiday season, EPA’s Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home can help you make a well-informed decision.
Tips for selecting and using a portable air cleaner:
- Never buy or use an air cleaner that generates ozone, a lung irritant.
- Choose an air cleaner with a clean air delivery rate (CADR) that is large enough for the size of the room. The higher the CADR the more particles an air cleaner can capture and remove from the air and the larger the room it can be used in.
- Running your air cleaner at a higher speed and for a longer time will help improve the air cleaner’s effectiveness.
- Place your air cleaner in the rooms where you spend more of your time such as your living room or bedroom.
- Replace filters regularly and follow all air cleaner manufacturing maintenance instructions.
Read EPA’s Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home for more details and tips.
Improving Environmental Health in Schools White Paper
The authors of this white paper are environmental health academics who recognize the importance of in-school education. However, we also understand that infectious disease transmission in schools is an existential challenge affecting the health of local communities and ultimately, society at large. We have extensive experience implementing environmental improvements both before and during the current pandemic. We wish to persuade the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the lead Agency for protecting human health and the environment, that now is the time to revive and expand their School Integrated Pest Management (SIPM) initiative to improve environmental health in schools and document the tangible benefits that follow.
U.S. Department of Education Encourages Use of American Rescue Plan Funds to Improve Ventilation and IAQ in Schools
Indoor air quality is critical to reopening schools safely and keeping them open. The U.S. Department of Education has released new guidance encouraging the use of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to improve ventilation systems and make other indoor air quality improvements in schools to prevent the spread of COVID- 19 and tackle longstanding school ventilation improvement needs. The new Department of Education guidance highlights EPA resources to support investments in improved ventilation and indoor air quality. Use the following resources from EPA to supplement the information in the guidance:
- Indoor Air and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Visit this page for the latest guidance on best indoor air practices to limit the spread of COVID-19.
- Ventilation and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Ventilation is an important approach to lowering concentrations of indoor air pollutants, including viruses. Increase the ventilation in your school with outdoor air when possible.
- Air Cleaners, HVAC filters, and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Air cleaners and HVAC filters can help to reduce viruses and pollutants in the air. Consider upgrading the HVAC filters in your system and using safe, effective portable air cleaners to supplement HVAC filtration. Note: Do
not use air cleaners that intentionally generate ozone in occupied spaces.
- Implementing a Layered Approach to Address COVID-19 in Public Indoor Spaces: A layered risk reduction approach is best to limit airborne transmission of COVID-19 – learn how to combine increased ventilation and filtration with other CDC recommendations, such as wearing masks and social distancing.
Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!
RESOURCES AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES: Week of January 18 -21, 2022
RESOURCES & FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Now Hiring!
NEW! The Navajo Nation’s Department of Fish and Wildlife is hiring for the positing of Planner/Cultural Plants Coordinator with a Start/End Date: Jan 1st, 2022-Dec 31st, 2024 (with possibility of extension contingent on funding) Salary: $19.87/hour and per diem reimbursement for travel.
The Navajo Natural Heritage Program is the sub-department with the Navajo Department of Fish and Wildlife which is responsible for tracking, managing, and conserving endangered and vulnerable plant and wildlife species on the Navajo Endangered Species List. As part of an initiative to take an active role in restoring wildlife habitat, the Heritage Program started the Diné Native Plants Program in 2017. The Navajo Fish and Wildlife is hiring one (1) Planner/Cultural Plants Coordinator to assist with developing the community outreach and traditional uses of plants component of the DNPP.
Essential Responsibilities and Functions: The Cultural Plants Coordinator will be based out of the Division of Natural Resources building in Window Rock and/or at the Navajo Forestry Department greenhouse in Fort Defiance, AZ and will work closely with the NNHP Forester and Botanist. To Apply: Job Vacancy Announcement (JVA) and application instructions found here: http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.
Contact: Jesse Mike (jmike@nndfw.org) or Nora Talkington (ntalkington@nndfw.org).
NEW! U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY HIRING WEBINAR FOR STUDENTS AND ALUMNI OF NATIVE SERVING INSTITUTIONS AND TRIBAL COLLEGES on Tuesday, January 25th at 3:00 PM EST
Join the Teams Meeting by clicking here. The webinar will provide information on job opportunities for students and recent graduates, how to apply to federal positions, creating a USA Jobs profile and saving searches, education and transcript requirements, federal pay, benefits and retirement, EPA’s work toward Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility. For questions, contact Kate Fox at fox.kate@epa.gov.
Northern Arizona University Assistant Professor Environmental Policy
Closing Date: January 21, 2022
Classification: On–Site, Full Time
Location: Flagstaff, Arizona, Mountain Campus
Salary: $69,000 – $73,000 depending on qualifications
Application Procedure: To apply for this position, please click on the “Apply” button at the end of the job description if viewing this position through the NAU HR website. Otherwise, to view the original post and to apply, proceed to nau.jobs, follow the ‘Faculty and Administrator Openings’ link, locate vacancy 605899, and then “Apply” at the bottom of the page. Application must include: (1) Cover letter addressing minimum and preferred qualifications, (2) Curriculum Vitae, (3) Statement of experiences and plans for contributing to a diverse and inclusive community of colleagues and students, (4) Statement of research interests and plans, (5) Statement of teaching philosophy and effectiveness including approaches for inclusive and interdisciplinary teaching, (6) Unofficial transcript, and (7) Contact information for three references including names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers. Only submissions received through our online applications system will be reviewed. Questions about the position may be sent to Dr. Denielle Perry (Denielle.Perry@nau.edu).
Northern Arizona University Assistant Professor of Indigenous Forestry
Classification: On–Site, Full Time
Location: Flagstaff, Arizona, Mountain Campus
Application Procedure: To apply for this position, please click on the “Apply” button at the end of the job description if viewing this position through the NAU HR website. Otherwise, to view the original post and to apply, proceed to nau.jobs, follow the ‘Faculty and Administrator Openings’ link, locate vacancy 605923, and then “Apply” at the bottom of the page.
Applications must include: (1) a letter of interest highlighting your qualifications for this position, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) unofficial graduate transcripts of all college level work, (4) one-page DEIJ statement (see description above), (5) a statement of teaching philosophy, and (6) names and contact information for three professional references (phone number, email, and address). Save all items as PDF documents.
For more information, please contact Dr. Carol Chambers, Search Committee Chair, School of Forestry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff AZ 86011-5018; phone: 928-523-0014. Email: Carol.Chambers@nau.edu
Tribal Climate Adaptation Menu Coordinator
Closing date: January 31, 2022
Classification: 3-year, full time (Renewable dependent on funding)
Location: Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission, Odanah, WI
Salary: Salary range: $39,707-$43,679 depending on qualifications.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Submit a completed GLIFWC application for employment (available at www.glifwc.org), letter of interest, resume, and three professional references to: Robert Croll, Climate Change Program Coordinator 715-682-6619 rcroll@glifwc.org
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is hiring a Sustainability Specialist and want to reach as wide an audience as possible. You can also get there through this link.
Public Lands Internship Program (PLIP)
The Public Lands Internship Program (PLIP), which is a partnership between Northern Arizona University and various land management agencies, such as the National Park Service (NPS). The Northern Arizona University (NAU) Public Lands Internship Program (PLIP) aims to place 10 or more interns and practicum students from the College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences (CEFNS) as well as other partner colleges at NAU each year.
Current internship opportunities are available at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area; Flagstaff Area, Aztec Ruins, and Montezuma Castle National Monuments; and Grand Canyon National Park. Indigenous and Native American students are strongly encouraged to apply. Visit the PLIP website for more information and please share these internship opportunities with your networks.
You can find a great listing of Indian Country jobs on NCAI’s website here.
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
NEW! Institute for Environmental Professionals (ITEP) Internship Opportunities
The Student Summer Internship (SSI) program is an 8-week program. The purpose of this internship program is for students to gain hands-on skills and experience with EPA or other governmental and tribal environmental offices in managing and monitoring air quality. The internship program is funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- Air Quality Internship (SSI) Program. Learn about paid 8-week summer internship opportunities for college students
The Water and Land Summer Internship program is an 8 to 10-week program. The purpose of this internship program is for students to gain hands-on skills and experience with tribal organizations, state and federal agencies, and water or land management NGO’s. The internship program is funded by the Catena Foundation, Mighty Arrow Foundation and the Babbitt Center for Land and Water Policy.
- Water and Land Summer Internship Program. Learn about paid summer internship opportunities for college students.
Reach out to Mansel Nelson (mansel.nelson@nau.edu) for more information and application process. Applications due by February 1, 2022
Communication Channels for NASA Funding Opportunities
Please consider signing up for the following communication channels. These channels will ensure that you are informed of student engagement and other funding opportunities:
- Register for an account with NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES). You’ll need to create an account, if you don’t already have one. Once you have an account you’ll be able to sign up for notifications to be alerted when new funding opportunities are released. There are sometimes opportunities released specifically for Minority Serving Institutions (including TCUs and other indigenous serving higher education institutions) so it’s good to receive the notifications to stay on top of new opportunities.
- Sign up for our MUREP Newsletter which goes out every 2 weeks on Fridays.
- Check our MUREP website for announcements regarding MUREP specific funding opportunities.
Office of Research and Development recently conducted planning discussions regarding the WSMART program. One decision we are activating now is a testing partner loan option during periods of lower wildfire activity (winter through early spring), with loans for up to 3 months. The website FAQs were updated today to outline that option (refer to: “Can I request this equipment to try out before the next wildfire season?”): https://www.epa.gov/air-sensor-toolbox/wildfire-smoke-air-monitoring-response-technology-wsmart-pilot
To view and/or receive ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program newsletter, Native Voices, click here!
Climate Change/Energy
NEW! The Clean Energy Corps is hiring. We need talented, diverse, kind, and hardworking people like you to join this team.
With the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Clean Energy Corps is charged with investing more than $62 billion to deliver a more equitable clean energy future for the American people by:
- Investing in American manufacturing
- Creating good paying jobs
- Expanding access to energy efficiency and clean energy for families, communities, and businesses
- Delivering reliable, clean, and affordable power to more Americans
- And building the technologies of tomorrow through clean energy research, development, and demonstrations
While not an exhaustive list, Department of Energy (DOE) is looking for candidates in the following career fields to support the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law:
- Business Administration
- Communications
- Engineering
- Finance/Accounting
- Grants/Contract Management
- Human Resources
- Information Technology/Cybersecurity
- Legal
- Legislative Affairs
- Physical Science
- Program and Portfolio Management
- Project Management
- Public Policy
- Safety and Occupational Health
Whether you’ve been working on Clean Energy issues for decades or are just starting out – we want you as part of the Clean Energy Corps. Apply Now!
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!
Toxics/Mobile Sources
2021 American Rescue Plan (ARP) Electric School Bus Rebates
EPA will fund $7 million for electric school bus rebates in underserved communities. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) appropriated funds to the EPA for “activities that identify and address disproportionate environmental or public health harms and risks in minority populations or low-income populations” under several programs, including the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA).
Rebate Application Form and Supporting Documents:
- 2021 ARP Electric School Bus Rebates Eligibility List (pdf)
- 2021 ARP Electric School Bus Rebates Program Guide
- 2021 ARP Electric School Bus Rebates Application
- 2021 ARP Electric School Bus Rebates Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Eligible Applicants:
- Public school districts listed on the ARP Electric School Bus Rebates Eligibility List
- Districts on the eligibility list are estimated to have 30% or more students living in poverty based on the US Census Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) School District Estimates for 2019.
States with zero school districts that make this cutoff will have one school district with the highest percent of students in poverty represented in the eligibility list.
- Tribal schools
- Private fleets that operate school buses under a contract with an eligible entity listed above
EPA Announces $10 Million Available for States, Tribes, and Territories to Address Environmental Challenges
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the availability of Multipurpose Grant (MPG) funding to support states, Tribes, and territories in addressing high-priority environmental issues, including PFAS, environmental justice and climate change. For more information on eligibility, use of funding, process for award, and timelines, please reference the Multipurpose Grant guidance.
Recent additions to OTAQ’s website in August 2021
You can access these additions as well as new press releases and Federal Register notices related to OTAQ on our website.
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.
Most Recent Listing: EPA Rules from the Federal Register can be found here.
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PHOTOS FROM THE FIELD: Week of July 26-30, 2021
In Memorial of Bill Thompson, Former NTAA Chairman
From the NTAA Executive Committee and Staff:
We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bill Thompson of the Penobscot Nation. Bill was a trusted friend, colleague, Tribal leader, and strong advocate for Tribes and tribal sovereignty, not just for Penobscot Nation or Tribes in the state of Maine, but all Tribes throughout the United States. He lent his voice and his time to NTAA, serving as Chairman for many years, also serving on the Tribal Air Monitoring Support Center, the National Tribal Caucus, and working for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Indoor Environments Division in Washington D.C.
The life and times of William Quincy Thompson…known to us all lovingly as just Bill. Bill “Peetarh” was a goofy member of the “Sweater Vest Tribe” but a fiercely proud and honored to be a Citizen of the Penobscot Nation. He was also proud of his Irish heritage, saluting it with every Guinness. His fight for Tribal Sovereignty and Tribal rights was always his first thought. Bill’s simple but constant reminder of being a Citizen and not a member has educated so many. Through every joke, radio voice, or parody Bill did, there was a lesson. Bill wasn’t always an air quality airhead, he started out as a writer. He had a flair for making stories fiction and non-fiction come to life. He was so wise but still did not take himself too seriously, always poking fun at himself and others. Bill had a love for tangents, going off into a story or derailing someone else’s story in such a good way that you always smiled. He was a true complementor, making them personalized and heartfelt that it made people feel special and truly complimented. Bill was selfless and would do or give anything to anyone that he felt needed it – regardless of his needs. Bill warmed people’s hearts. His nature was pure.
Bill loved with his whole being. Being around Bill you felt this. Lisa was the love of Bill’s life; some would say true soulmates. He loved her with such respect and gratitude that came through every time he talked about her. He equally loved his children, Gabe and Jasmine, sharing photos, projects, updates proudly whenever possible. He revered family and loved his friends. Well Bill, we equally loved you back. We miss you and will forever remember your teachings. You are gone way too soon. May you be at peace my friend and enjoy all the lobsta and butta to your heart’s desire. Tahko.
TOP STORIES/HEADLINES: Week of July 26-30, 2021
TOP STORIES
Upcoming Oil & Natural Gas Methane Rule
Comment deadline: Friday, July 30, 2021
The NTAA has created a template letter that your Tribe can use to comment on the EPA’s Upcoming Oil and Natural Gas Methane Rule, which is a pre-proposal public outreach effort by the EPA. The template letter can be downloaded here, or found on the PRK page of the NTAA’s website.
PBS News Hour – Wildfires are increasing health risks of already-polluted regions of the U.S., experts warn
AP – EXCLUSIVE: Biden mileage rule to exceed Obama climate goal
Los Angeles Times – Bipartisan infrastructure deal could advance as soon as today after breakthrough in talks
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
Political Pro – EPA advisers eye improving air quality equity
National Geographic – Wildfire smoke blowing across the U.S. is more toxic than we thought
Seattle Times – How to prepare for wildfire smoke in your home, car and while outdoors
Taos News – Nonprofit helps Native tribes utilize their natural resources
NPR – Without Enough Water To Go Around, Farmers In California Are Exhausting Aquifers
Vox – The West is burning. Climate change is making it worse.
Yahoo – How wildfires can impact soil and cause it to repel water
Yale Environment 360 – U.S. power sector sees biggest one-year drop in emissions in more than two decades
The Independent – Cutting air pollution levels ‘improves brain function and lowers risk of dementia’, studies suggest
National Association of Clean Air Agencies – Washington Update
Climate Change/Energy
Science – U.N. climate panel confronts implausibly hot forecasts of future warming
The Hill – Shocking video shows salmon almost boiled alive in heat wave
Lakeland PBS – White Earth Gives 48-Hour Cease-and-Desist Order to Enbridge
The Guardian – The cost of cooling: how air conditioning is heating up the world
Washington Post – How to cool down your home without relying on air conditioning
AP – Landslides, monsoon flooding kill over 100 in western India
Inside Climate News – A Triple Whammy Has Left Many Inner-City Neighborhoods Highly Vulnerable to Soaring Temperatures
Rolling Stone – Want Proof We Need a Civilian Climate Corps? Look No Further Than Louisiana
Vox – Our bodies can adapt to hotter conditions – but there’s a limit
The Guardian – Marijuana farmers blames for water theft as drought grips American west
Toxics/Mobile Sources
U.S. Department of Justice – Justice Department and EPA Reach Clean Air Act Settlement with Advanced Flow Engineering for Selling Defeat Devices
Houston Chronicle – U.S. natural gas exports to Mexico established a new monthly record in June 2021
Wall Street Journal – gas engines, and the people behind them, are cast aside for electric vehicles
Fast Company – This new study debunks one of the biggest criticisms of electric vehicles
Indoor Air Quality
NPR – Masks Will Return To The U.S. House And White House After The CDC Changes Guidance
USA Today – CDC and doctors call for masks in school. Will states, schools follow guidelines?
Be sure to subscribe to EPA’s IAQ Bulletins
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES: Week of July 26-30, 2021
UPCOMING CALLS/EVENTS/NOTICES
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
NEW! OAP’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Program for Tribes
Tuesday, August 3; 12pm EST | Register Here RSVP by August 2nd
Join us for our online webinar to learn how EPA’s RAD program could benefit Tribal Communities as well as hear from one of our RAD partners about their experience. Municipalities, utilities, and any interested community members are encourages to apply!
NEW! On July 7, 2021, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $50 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding to improve ambient air quality monitoring for communities across the United States. EPA will receive a total of $100 million from the ARP to address health outcome disparities from pollution and the COVID-19 pandemic, with $50 million specifically to advance environmental justice, and another $50 million to enhance air quality monitoring.
NEW! On August 4, 2021, EPA will hold a feedback and insights session to provide an overview of the intended distribution of the air quality monitoring funds with a focus on the competitive grant and direct award criteria. In addition, there will be a short overview on the $50 million in funding aimed at advancing environmental justice. The purpose of this session is to go over the proposed grant solicitation, timelines, and answer questions and hear from Tribal stakeholders.
EPA’s plans to use the $50 million to enhance air quality monitoring include:
- A $20 million grant competition requesting applications from community groups, state, local and tribal air agencies, individually or in partnerships, to conduct monitoring of pollutants of greatest concern in communities with health outcome disparities,
- $22.5 million in direct awards to state, local or tribal air agencies for enhanced monitoring of fine particle pollution (PM2.5) and other criteria air pollutants in and near communities facing disproportionate exposure to these pollutants and increased vulnerability to COVID-19,
- $5 million supporting agency mobile monitoring labs or air sensor loan programs to support communities in need of short-term monitoring and air quality information, and
- $2.5 million to improve data management and ensure the grants and programs are properly administered and tracked.
More information on EPA’s plans for the ARP funding is available here and the official news release!
Click the link below to register for this upcoming webinar. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email. Information on “how to join” along with a list of consultation questions for the competitive grants ($20M) will be sent in a follow-up email. Please register by noon, Tuesday, August 03, 2021. A Webinar will be held on Wednesday, August 04, 2021 (Click link to register) 2:00p.m.-3:30p.m. EDT: Tribal Stakeholders
Wildfire Smoke and Indoor Air Quality
This summer, wildfires have spread across the U.S. creating devastation and dangerous smoke events affecting millions of American lives. If you are in need of immediate wildfire guidance, see EPA’s wildfire webpage for more resources. Smoke from wildfires can adversely affect indoor air quality and put people’s health at risk from exposure to particulate matter and other pollutants. During a wildfire, smoke can make the outdoor air unhealthy to breathe, and local officials may advise you to stay indoors during a smoke event. However, some of the smoke from outdoors can enter the home and reduce indoor air quality. Exposure to fine particles, a major component of wildfire smoke, can cause respiratory symptoms and aggravate chronic heart and lung diseases.
Read on to learn more about:
- How Indoor airPLUS Homes Protect Against the Harmful Effects of Wildfire Smoke
- Reduce Exposure to Wildfire Smoke Inside the Home
- Additional Resources
GAP Guidance Evaluation Phase 2 Revisions and Allocation: Tribal Participation Opportunity!
EPA is revising the 2013 Guidance on the Award and Management of General
Assistance Agreements for Tribes and Tribal Consortia. The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program, or GAP, is the largest tribal capacity building program in EPA. The GAP Guidance is for tribes at all levels of capacity building. All perspectives from beginning to advanced stages of tribal capacity development are encouraged on the revision workgroups. Click here to read more!
In addition to revising the 2013 GAP Guidance, EPA will initiate consultation with tribes on how EPA allocates Congressionally appropriated GAP funds to regions annually. Letters will be sent to Tribal Leaders notifying the start of consultation beginning July 19, 2021. More information on EPA’s consultation on the national GAP allocation will be available online at https://tcots.epa.gov.
Addressing Air Quality in Tribal Communities (for Beginners)
August 10-12; 9am – 2pm PDT, 12pm – 5pm EDT | Course capped at 12 participants | Register Here
Deadline: The application is due on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
Learning objective:
At the end of the event, participants will articulate their community’s main ambient (outdoor) air quality concerns and identify the resources (e.g., documents, contacts, training) needed to begin addressing air quality issues in their community.
Who should participate: This workshop is for environmental professionals who are just beginning to address ambient air quality issues in tribal communities. No prior knowledge or background in air quality is needed.
EPA’s air quality training program is released three new training materials! These materials are foundational in level, and are being offered to tribal, state, and local air agencies in an e-learning format through our learning management system (LMS).
The materials include:
- A course that explains the purpose of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) within the air quality management process.
- A module that explains each of the six criteria pollutants under the Clean Air Act. This module represents “micro-learning”— a short, focused bit of training on a particular topic.
- A module that explains what air toxics are. Similar to the criteria pollutants module, this module represents “micro-learning.”
To access the course and modules on the LMS (https://epaapti.csod.com), please register (if you haven’t already!), then log in and refer to the “What’s New” section on the home page.
NTAA Upcoming Calls
Contact Andy.Bessler@nau.edu if you have any questions about any call! *Registration instructions* When you register for the GoToWebinar, please remember to include your Tribe, Region, or Organization in parenthesis after your last name. This allows you to see everyone on the call and prevents us from conducting a roll-call, ultimately saving everyone’s time.
| EPA Policy Call: Call in to hear updates from EPA on policies, actions, and tools relevant to Indian Country and Air Quality. Attend by clicking here.
Please join us for a virtual memorial for Bill Thompson that will take place at the conclusion of this Air Policy Call. |
Thursday, July 29, 2pm ET |
| Mobile Sources Work Group: This monthly work group addresses all mobile source pollution issues. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, August 5, 2pm ET |
| Indoor Air Quality Work Group: Join this work group every other month to help support IAQ work throughout Indian Country. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, August 19, 2pm ET
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| Wood Smoke Work Group: Join this work group every other month to address wood smoke issues in Indian Country. Attend by clicking here. | Thursday, September 23, 1pm ET |
The Institute for Tribal Environmental Professional (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. New courses have been added, so check it out!
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
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.
ITEP’s Tribes and Climate Change Calendar includes conferences, trainings, webinars, and other events related to tribes and climate change.
Climate Change / Energy
EPA’s Climate Change Indicators in the United States: EPA’s newly updated website, Climate Change Indicators in the United States, looks at changes to our health and the environment related to the causes and effects of climate change.
With new science, additional indicators, and more years of data, many of these signs of climate change have become even more evident, stronger, and extreme. Explore the website. You are invited to participate in two upcoming webinars on the resource:
- June 24 will focus on Climate and Heat: Trends, Health Impacts and Risk. This one-hour webinar will feature climate-related temperature trends particularly related to extreme heat and urban heat, human health effects, social vulnerability, and risks (happening now and looking into the future). Visit EPA’s State, Local, and Tribal Webinar Series webpage.
ITEP’s Climate Change Adaptation Training Courses registration is online! Learn more about the courses and register here.
Toxics/Mobile Sources
EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act’s Tribal Grants for FY21
Request for Applications now open! More information can be found on this flyer and on this website. EPA’s 2021 Tribal and Insular Area grant program is now open. EPA anticipates awarding approximately $5 million in DERA funding under this announcement. A total of $4.5 million will be made available to tribal governments (or intertribal consortia) and Alaska Native villages, and $500,000 will be made available to insular area governments. EPA anticipates awarding five to ten cooperative agreements to tribal governments (or intertribal consortia) and Alaska Native villages and two to four cooperative agreements to insular area governments. Click here for more information.
The U.S. EPA is in the process of conducting a residual risk and technology review of the 2002 National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Major Source Primary Copper Smelting and a technology review of the 2007 Primary Copper Smelting Area Sources NESHAP.
After EPA publishes the rules in the Federal Register, EPA plans to accept comment on these proposals for at least 45 days after publication in the Federal Register. Interested parties can download additional information and a copy of the proposed rules (when they are officially issued by EPA) from EPA’s website and this website. The proposed rules and other background information will also be available either electronically here, EPA’s electronic public docket and comment system. Materials for the proposed actions can be accessed using Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2020-0430. For further technical information about the rule, contact Tonisha Dawson, EPA’s Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, at (919) 541-1454 or dawson.tonisha@epa.gov.
Green Transportation Summit & Expo
August 16-18, 2021 Tacoma, Washington | Registration
The 10th annual Green Transportation Summit & Expo (GTSE) is the region’s premier clean transportation convening event. There has not been a time when clean transportation has had as much potential. With this year’s theme of Reflecting + Refocusing on a Resilient Future, we are giving particular attention to recent events affecting our communities and livelihood. We will be creating space to ensure these critical topics are addressed. All Tribes can get a 20% discount, contact Dara.Marks-Marino@nau.edu for the code!
The recent additions to OTAQ’s website in June 2021. You can access these additions as well as new press releases and Federal Register notices related to OTAQ on our website.
The recent additions to OTAQ’s website are listed here. You can access these additions as well as new press releases and Federal Register notices related to OTAQ on our website.
Indoor Air Quality
| US EPA Presents a free webinar in Spanish and English on how to
protect your home and family from air pollution: Healthy Air: Indoors and Out on August, 12, 2021 at 12:00 -1:00PM Pacific Time. Join us to learn about indoor and outdoor air pollution in the U.S.-Mexico border region and what you can do to protect your home and community. Presenters will share information on common air pollution sources, potential health impacts from poor air quality, and tips and tricks for creating safe environments. All members of the public are welcome! Please join this webinar here from your computer, tablet or smartphone. Simultaneous interpretation will be available. For more information, please contact Francisco Dóñez, EPA at Donez.Francisco@epa.gov.
Summer is the perfect time to brush up on ventilation practices for schools! Are you prepared for schools to reopen this fall? Take some time to view these webinars available on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) website, which focus on virus mitigation strategies, including ventilation, filtration and supplemental air purification. · Let’s Clear the Air: Using Ventilation Practices to Promote Healthy IAQ in Schools – recorded July 30, 2020 · Ventilation and Virus Mitigation in Schools: Creating a Game Plan to Reduce COVID-19 Risk and Make Lasting Improvements to IAQ – recorded on February 25, 2021
How Indoor airPLUS Homes Help Reduce the Occurrence of Asthma Triggers in the Home Here are ways an Indoor airPLUS home can help reduce asthma triggers in the home. |
Be sure to subscribe to CodeTalk, HUD’s Office of Native American Programs newsletter, for webinars and opportunities!
RESOURCES AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES: Week of July 26-30, 2021
RESOURCES & FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Now Hiring!
Upper Sioux Environmental Specialist
Under direct supervision of the Environmental Director, the Environmental Specialist, will be responsible for carrying out the objectives of the Upper Sioux Community’s Office of the Environment. The Environmental Specialist will conduct environmental surveys and assessments, supervise field activities, monitor condition of Tribal natural resources, work closely with contractors and other governmental agencies to protect Tribal resources and aid other Tribal entities.
Tribal Program Manager, Energy
The goal of the EDF Energy Program is to bend the curve on greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas production and use by 2030, while meeting the world’s energy needs cleanly and equitably. EDF seeks a talented and self-motivated Tribal Program Manager to play a critical role in the development and execution of EDF’s Navajo and Federal methane regulatory campaigns. The Manager will be an on-the-ground player in support of program initiatives and will develop and implement an outreach strategy with the Navajo Nation and tribes impacted by oil and gas pollution across the U.S. with the objective of raising awareness around the environmental and health hazards associated with oil and gas development and providing avenues and tools for engaging tribal communities in political and policy processes to reduce methane waste, air and climate pollution. More info here!
Events Coordinator, Senior
Northern Arizona University, Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals
We would like to invite you to visit our careers site to complete your application.
DIRECTIONS:
- Select the link to access our careers site.
- Sign In to access your account or if you are not an existing user select the New User link to create one.
- Review the job description and select the Apply button to begin your application.
National Parks and Conservation Association (NPCA) Indigenous Fellow
This position is a 2-year fellowship opportunity for an emerging leader to:
- Work on existing and/or develop new campaigns at NPCA that hold a personal and/or cultural significance to them and support NPCA’s mission.
- Support NPCA’s growth and organizational development as a stronger ally with functional understanding of law and sovereignty, cultural sensitivity, and a basic knowledge of Indigenous history and experience.
- Deepen NPCA’s capacity and awareness to understand and, if appropriate, to engage on intersectional Native American policy issues as it relates to NPS and public lands.
This is a budgeted position. NPCA is committed to diversity among its employees and hiring practices. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by submitting your resume and cover letter directly online to www.npca.org.
Indigenous Engagement Coordinator Position for the Navigating the New Arctic Community Office
This position will focus on supporting Arctic communities by facilitating local/regional NNA research partnerships and interfacing NNA research with Indigenous cultures, knowledge systems, and research needs. This position will work closely with the Office of Research and Community Engagement (ORCE) Director at APU and the NNA-CO team to advance the office’s support of use-inspired convergence research in the Arctic—collaborative research that deeply draws on information and expertise from across disciplines and knowledge systems to solve complex challenges. This position will uphold the Office’s vision and commitment to support the NNA community (researchers, Arctic community partners, Indigenous knowledge holders, decision-makers, etc.) through coordination, enhanced communication, and interdisciplinary, cross-cultural, and institutional learning.
Ambient Air Quality/EPA/NTAA/Tribes
NEW! Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is pleased to announce the availability of funding to support the hiring of Tribal Climate Resilience Liaisons in Alaska, the Northwest, and the Southwest through the BIA’s Tribal Resilience Program (Program).
Eligible applicants include tribal non-profit, non-governmental organizations and tribally-controlled colleges or universities (TCUs) that serve federally-recognized tribes. Other entities may participate as sub-grantees. The solicitation is available on grants.gov, and named BIA-2021-TCRP.
Attention Region 9 Tribes! The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is accepting nominations from the public for the 2020-2021 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards by August 10, 2021. Since 2001, the has annually bestowed the distinguished Haagen-Smit Awards. The awards recognize extraordinary individuals who have made significant contributions toward improving air quality.
The selection criteria include: 1) Major accomplishments; 2) Contributions toward improving air quality and/or climate change, in terms of commitment, leadership, and innovation; 3) At least three letters of recommendation. Visit the CARB website to learn more about the awards program and past recipients. For more information please contact: haagen-smit.awards@arb.ca.gov.
Assistant Secretary Sweeney Announces $3 Million Living Languages Grant Program Funding Opportunity
Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Tara Mac Lean Sweeney announced today that the Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development (IEED) is soliciting applications to the Living Languages Grant Program (LLGP). This $3 Million grant program will fund between 15 and 60 grants, ranging from $25,000-$200,000, to federally recognized American Indian tribes and Alaska Native entities to document, preserve and revitalize Native languages and build active speaker capacity. IEED’s solicitation for LLGP funding and details on how to apply can be found in the Federal Register and at Grants.Gov.
EPA is now accepting applications for a total of $9 million in grants to fund about 24 Great Lakes Restoration Initiative projects to address stormwater runoff pollution from land into water bodies. EPA is also holding an applicant webinar.
- August 20, 2021– Applications must be submitted via www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time / 10:59 p.m. Central Time. See Section IV of the grants announcements for further submission information.
EPA is requesting applications for projects in three categories; each one has a separate Funding Opportunity Number and will be posted separately on www.grants.gov. Applicants must apply for the specific funding opportunity they are interested in. Learn more about the three categories here.
State agencies, interstate agencies, federally recognized Indian tribes and tribal organizations, local governments, institutions of higher learning and non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for the GLRI grants in three categories. Individuals, foreign organizations and governments, nonprofit organizations exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code that engage in lobbying, and “for-profit” organizations are not eligible to apply for funding under this request for application.
Click here for more information on how to apply.
To view and/or receive ITEP’s American Indian Air Quality Training Program newsletter, Native Voices, click here!
Climate Change/Energy
ClimateWorks Foundation Request for Proposals: Direct Air Capture and Environmental and Climate Justice
Proposals due: August 17, 2021
ClimateWorks is requesting proposals on topics with a joint focus on environmental and climate justice and Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies in the United States. While not exhaustive, topics of interest include:
- Community organizing, grassroots coalition building, and shifting power to historically underserved groups and individuals focused on climate and environmental justice.
- Policy conceptualization, design and implementation related to issues including, but not limited to, mitigation deterrence, environmental or health impacts, benefit and risk sharing, job creation and workforce development, financing of projects, and community engagement and participation.
- Research on issues related to the deployment of projects, or policy impacts and the implications with environmental and climate justice at the community level.
We welcome innovative proposals that have synergies with other climate strategies. Organizations led by Black and Indigenous people and other people of color, or youth, with annual budgets of less than $450,000 USD are strongly encouraged to apply.
On-Request Technical Assistance from DOE Office of Indian Energy
Applications Due: Not Applicable
Eligible Entities: tribal governments
The DOE Office of Indian Energy provides federally recognized Indian tribes, including Alaska Native villages, tribal energy resource development organizations, and other organized tribal groups and communities, with technical assistance to advance tribal energy projects at no cost. Technical experts from DOE and its national laboratories, along with other partnering organizations, provide support to assist Indian tribes and Alaska Native villages with energy planning, housing and building energy efficiency, project development, policy and regulation, resilience, and village power.
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!
Toxics/Mobile Sources
EPA Announces $10 Million Available for States, Tribes, and Territories to Address Environmental Challenges
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the availability of Multipurpose Grant (MPG) funding to support states, Tribes and territories in addressing high-priority environmental issues, including PFAS, environmental justice and climate change. For more information on eligibility, use of funding, process for award, and timelines, please reference the Multipurpose Grant guidance.
Recent additions to OTAQ’s website in March 2021
You can access these additions as well as new press releases and Federal Register notices related to OTAQ on our website.
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.
Most Recent Listing: EPA Rules from the Federal Register can be found here.