| Public Meeting St. Louis-Area Chlorine Gas Release Air and Land Water Protection |
Protecting Missouri's Natural Resources is a monthly newsletter that informs readers about environmental issues.
AUGUST 2002
DEPARTMENT APPOINTS JAMES D. WERNER AS NEW DIVISION DIRECTOR
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has appointed James D. Werner as the new director of the Air and Land Protection Division. Daniel R. Schuette, who has served as the interim director, will continue as the deputy director for the Air and Land Protection Division.
Werner brings to the department more than 20 years of experience with site-specific technical responsibilities in the field as well as policy duties dealing with federal, state and local officials.
Werner has served the past year as a senior advisor for the department, working primarily on hazardous waste issues. Before working for the department, he served nearly eight years in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) where he was director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Analysis, and later served as founding director of the Office of Long-term Stewardship for the Environmental Management Program.
Prior to his service at DOE, Werner worked as an environmental engineer for a national non-governmental organization and a private consulting firm supervising cleanup crews, performing field audits of industrial facilities and supporting federal and state policy development. Earlier, Werner performed technical and policy research and analysis on hazardous waste cleanup issues with the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey, the Congressional Office of Technology Assessment and the Environmental Law Institute.
Werner earned a bachelor degree in Biology and Geography from the University of Delaware and a Masters degree in Environmental Engineering from Johns Hopkins University.
The Air and Land Protection Division is responsible for protecting the environment, public health and the economic well-being of Missourians by preserving and improving the quality of the state's air and land, and by encouraging wise management of Missouri's natural resources.
Jim will reside in Columbia with his wife, Christine Bird, and son, Nicolai.
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATORY AGENDA AVAILABLE ON THE WEB
You can now access The Regulatory Agenda on the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Web pages. The Regulatory Agenda contains all Missouri environmental rule actions in progress and those that have become effective within the last three months for the Department of Natural Resources.
The Agenda is updated at least once each month using the Regulatory Action Tracking System, a program created by computer technicians within the department. The tracking system allows the information from a database to be sent to the Web with the push of a button, automatically updating all rules currently being worked on and those effective in the last 90 days. This newsletter publishes the status of department rules each month. Now, visitors to the online Regulatory Agenda will be able to find out the latest status of rules immediately.
A comprehensive index table provides the program area, rule identification number, rule number, action type, areas of concern and development stage for each rule action. The index table also has interactive links that provide complete details to each rule, including the rule name, Missouri Register citations, a brief abstract, staff contacts and the completed and expected rulemaking calendar. The Web address to view The Regulatory Agenda is www.dnr.mo.gov/rats/regagenda.htm.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-2574. For complete copies of the proposed and final rule actions published in the Missouri Register, contact your local library or call the Secretary of State's office at 573-751-3367 or visit www.sos.state.mo.us/adrules/moreg/moreg.asp.
WASTE TIRE REMOVAL FIGHTS WEST NILE VIRUS
Detection of the West Nile virus in Missouri and deaths due to the virus in other states have prompted the question what can be done to help prevent further spread of the disease. The Missouri departments of Natural Resources and Health and Senior Services believe cleaning up waste tires and illegal dumpsites are a step in the right direction.
A West Nile Virus Fact Sheet, developed by the Department of Health and Senior Services, suggests property owners "remove all discarded tires on your property. Used tires are very significant mosquito breeding sites" and eliminate containers where standing water can provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
In addition to the environmental threat of waste tire pile fires, the impact of increased mosquito populations due to water standing in these piles has been a significant health concern for the Department of Natural Resources for many years. Fortunately, the department, in conjunction with tire removal businesses and the Missouri Department of Corrections, has removed more than 10 million tires from Missouri's environment over the past 10 years; most of these removals have occurred since 1996. An estimated 3.5 million tires remain in small, often difficult to find, locations across the entire state.
Since 1990, Missouri's 50-cent per tire fee, placed on new tire sales, provides the funding used to cleanup the state's remaining tire dumps. The funds are also used to regulate tire haulers and processors in addition to finance grants for the use of shredded and processed tires on playgrounds, running tracks, walking trails and for fuel. Since 1995, the Missouri General Assembly directed 65 percent of the funds to be used to clean up illegal waste tire sites.
Another factor that could also protect the health of Missouri residents and visitors is encouraging landowners to clean up old, abandoned dumps or illegal dumpsites. Such sites may also be a fire hazard and a source of standing water, which provides more potential breeding sites for mosquitoes. At present, landowners bear the responsibility of cleaning up illegal dumps left by previous owners or by people dumping trash illegally.
For the cleanup of small piles of abandoned tires, the Department of Natural Resources has authorized reimbursement of disposal costs to non-profit groups for waste tires collected during voluntary cleanups of land and water resources. The group applying for such reimbursement must obtain prior authorization and meet certain criteria to complete the process.
A complete list of instructions, forms and additional information can be obtained by calling 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401 or by visiting the Department of Natural Resources' Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/tirecost.htm. For a copy of the Department of Health and Senior Services' West Nile Virus Fact Sheet, see www.dhss.state.mo.us/Publications/CDManual/WNVfactsheet.htm.
Public Meeting to Discuss Doe Run's Proposed Haul Routes Through the City of Herculaneum
As part of the Settlement Agreement between the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Doe Run Company, Doe Run shall periodically assess and propose modifications to the haul route. The first proposal was due July 31, 2002. The purpose of the new haul route is to limit concentrate truck traffic to one route in an effort to minimize contact with occupied residences. The Doe Run Company has proposed three haul routes for approval by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the City of Herculaneum.
The Department of Natural Resources will hold a public meeting in
order to receive comments about the proposals. The public meeting
will be held Sept. 12, 2002 at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Dr. Gray Music
Room, Herculaneum High School, Herculaneum.
The department will discuss criteria for evaluating the proposed routes
and the advantages and disadvantages of each proposed route.
The Doe Run Company has offered the first round of voluntary buyouts to the residents with children 72 months and younger. The Doe Run Company will begin the second round of voluntary buyouts, within the buyout zone, by the end of 2002. Revision of the haul route may be a factor in prioritizing second-round buyouts.
The Department of Natural Resources and the City of Herculaneum would like your comments on the proposed haul routes. The department will accept written comments until 5 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2002. Please send copies of written comments to Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Attn: Renee Bungart, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176; or by fax to 573-751-9277.
People requiring special services or wishing to speak at the meeting
can make arrangements by calling 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4465.
Hearing impaired persons may contact the department through Relay
Missouri at 800-735-2966.
For more information or a copy of the proposed routes, contact the
Missouri Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4465 or visit the Web at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/herc.htm.
AIR POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM UPDATES KANSAS CITY MAINTENANCE SIP
The Kansas City Maintenance Plan for Control of Ozone is one element of the Missouri State Implementation Plan (SIP) that provides for implementation, maintenance and enforcement of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). When an area in Missouri is found in violation of NAAQS for ozone, particular matter, carbon monoxide, lead, sulfur oxides or nitrogen dioxide, the state must write an implementation plan to correct the violation of the standard. In the 1970s, ozone was found to be above the federal standard in the Kansas City area and an implementation plan was written in 1979 to show how the area would attain the one-hour standard for ozone. In 1992, the Kansas City area met the standard and was redesignated to an attainment area. As required by the Clean Air Act, a maintenance plan was then written to maintain the one-hour standard.
The 2002 Kansas City Ozone Maintenance Plan includes six components:
- A history of previous controls
- A demonstration of continued attainment
- The current emission inventory and motor vehicle budgets
- Contingency measures
- Continued monitoring network commitment
- Conformity analysis.
The 2002 maintenance plan will help the area to comply with the NAAQS requirement for ozone with no deterioration in air quality by using reasonable control measures.
The history provides background of the various plans that preceded this plan.
The demonstration of continued attainment provides the justification
to show that no deterioration of air quality will occur. This plan
includes rules and actions that have been enacted since the first
implementation plan. Most of the rules control sources of VOCs (Volatile
Organic Compounds) like solvent cleaning, petroleum storage, aerospace
reworking and control of Reid Vapor Pressure for gasoline. The current
inventory is projected through the year 2012 to demonstrate that no
net increase in emissions will occur.
The current emission inventory of the area provides the emissions
large and small sources of emissions in the maintenance area. The
ozone maintenance plan also includes a requirement to update the emission
inventory every three years. Mobile emissions are those emissions
from highway and off road vehicles. Mobile emissions budgets are derived
using the EPA "Mobile 6" emissions model.
Contingency measures are included in the plan to assure the area stays in compliance with the NAAQS. If the area's three-year emission inventory update for NOx or VOC show a five percent or more increase above 1999 emissions inventory, additional controls may be required. If a violation of NAAQS occurs, a thorough analysis will be conducted to determine appropriate measures to address the cause of the violation. Selected control measures will be adopted and implemented as quickly as practicable. These contingency measures include transportation controls and additional NOx and VOC controls.
The maintenance plan includes a commitment of support for continuing the emission-monitoring network. This network includes the operation of stationary ozone monitors that are located at sites within the boundaries of the maintenance area. These monitors are operated in accordance with EPA guidance and include submission of a monitoring plan to ensure technical validity of the collected data.
The conformity analysis is included in the plan to show that emissions from proposed transportation plans will not exceed the Mobile Budgets.
The Kansas City Maintenance Plan for Control of Ozone was be presented at the June 28, 2002, Missouri Air Conservation Commission public hearing in Kansas City. After consideration of any comments received during the comment period and adoption by the commission, the maintenance plan will be submitted to EPA for inclusion in the Missouri SIP. Upon EPA approval, the plan has both federal and state enforceability.
INDEPENDENT MONITORING SHOWS ENCOURAGING RESULTS
Recent testing by the Department of Natural Resources has shown a decrease in uranium levels at the Weldon Spring Site in St. Charles County. During World War II, the Weldon Spring site was used by the United States Army to produce explosives at the Weldon Spring Ordnance Works (WSOW), a 17,000-acre facility that employed more than 5,000 employees.
In 1955, the Army transferred some 200 acres to the Atomic Energy
Commission (AEC) for construction of the Weldon Spring Uranium Feed
Materials Plant, which processed uranium ore and small amounts of
thorium.
During initial investigations, surface water runoff in Burgermiester Spring in the Busch Wildlife Conservation Area were found to have uranium levels as high as 355 parts per billion (ppb), more than 10 times the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's proposed drinking water standard of 30 ppb.
Since the closure of the on-site disposal cell in 2001, the concentration of uranium in Burgermiester Spring has fallen below the 30-ppb level. This case highlights the importance of independent state oversight as the Weldon Spring Site moves into long term stewardship. The department continues to provide oversight to ensure the safe remediation of this site.
For more information call the Federal Facilities Section Field Office in Weldon Spring at 636-441-8030.
ST. LOUIS-AREA CLORINE GAS RELEASE
On August 14, 2002, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Environmental Emergency Response received a report of a leaking chlorine railcar at DPC Enterprises located at 1785 Highway 61 in Festus. Chlorine is a greenish-yellow gas and is commonly used in water treatment, the paper/wood pulping industry and a wide variety of other chemical processes. Chlorine is extremely irritating to mucous membranes and the respiratory tract. Concentrations of 50 parts per million (ppm) are dangerous and exposures to 1,000 ppm may be fatal, even where the exposure is brief.
The Jefferson County Hazardous Materials Team and many other emergency response agencies and officials responded to the scene to address the on-going release. The Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) responded to the scene to assist the local officials who had conducted an evacuation of nearby residential dwellings and closed Highway 61 and Interstate 55.
The Jefferson County Hazardous Materials Team entered the area of the release with the highest levels of personal protective equipment and effectively closed the valve on the railcar, thereby ending the 3 hour release of chlorine gas. The Jefferson County Hazardous Materials Team, the department and EPA officials conducted air monitoring of the affected areas until the chlorine gas had dissipated and the evacuees were allowed to return to their residences. The department and EPA continue their investigation of the release.
The Chemical Safety Board (CSB) announced it will conduct a full-scale investigation into the root causes of the three-hour chlorine gas leak at the plant. The decision to launch a detailed investigation follows a preliminary assessment conducted by two CSB investigators who spent several days at the site of the accident, where a chlorine hose connected to a railroad tanker burst. Emergency shut-off valves at the site failed to operate properly. The CSB will study the cause of the hose failure and the reasons why the emergency shut-off system failed to function. The inquiry will include an examination of emergency response and preparedness measures as well as the process safety management systems in place at the DPC plant. Source: http://www.chemsafety.gov/#ChlorineGas.
STATE AWARDS $154,000 TO CITY OF CANALOU FOR WASTEWATER IMPROVEMENTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $154,000
to the city of Canalou for wastewater system improvements.
The city will use the proceeds to pay for a portion of the construction
costs of a wastewater collection and pumping system. The project consists
of the installation of 12,200 lineal feet of gravity sewer lines and
47 manholes. In addition, the project will have one pump station and
34,000 lineal feet of force main. This sewer collection system will
discharge to the city of Matthews' wastewater treatment facilities.
"With this grant, we are taking important steps to curb the problem of water pollution and improve water quality for our residents," said Department Director Steve Mahfood. Funding for the grant comes from the sale of State Water Pollution Control bonds authorized by the voters in November 1988.
The grant will be administered by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. For more information, call Joy Reven of Department of Natural Resources' Water Pollution Control Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-2735.
MO HOSTS NACD NORTH CENTRAL REGIONAL MEETING IN BRANSON
The National Association of Conservation Districts held its regional meeting in Branson on July 7-10. Those attending were conservation district officials, state and federal agency personnel, conservation district employees and the staff of these organizations. This year Missouri was the host to seven other states in the North Central region. These included Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. The meeting provided a forum for informal discussions between local, state and federal personnel involved with soil and water conservation. Workshops were provided on third party vendors, Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), Agricultural Nonpoint Source (AgNPS) Special Area Land Treatment (SALT) projects, Agro Forestry, and the 2002 Farm Bill.
Congressman Roy Blunt delivered the keynote address at the opening session on Monday. On Tuesday, participants were taken to two tours, one that included an intensive grazing system consisting of approximately 140 acres in the Ozark hills. This system, managed by Dean Sims and his son-in-law Kenny Schackleford, grazes 45 cow/calf pairs. Information was presented on how their system was installed and how it has helped their operation.
The other tour was given at the Davis' Turkey Farm. This family-owned confined turkey raising operation sits along the bank of the James River, a major tributary to Table Rock Lake. The owners discussed the comprehensive nutrient management plan that they use to do their part in maintaining the water quality of Table Rock Lake.
Next year's regional meeting will be held in Wisconsin.
NEW 2002 MISSOURI DROUGHT PLAN RELEASED
A 2002 drought plan for the State of Missouri has been released by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. It replaces the 995 Missouri Drought Response Plan and represents the work of the Missouri Drought Assessment Committee. The committee consists of representatives of the following state and federal agencies: the Missouri departments of Natural Resources, Agriculture, Public Safety, Health and Senior Services, Conservation, Economic Development, Social Services and the University of Missouri and the U.S. departments of Commerce, Agriculture, Army, Interior, Environmental Protection and Emergency Management.
The 2002 Missouri Drought Plan provides coordinated guidance for state and federal agencies during drought conditions. It also provides guidance for preparing for times of drought and is part of the integrated State Emergency Operations Plan of the State Emergency Management Agency.
Missouri's susceptibility to drought is described in the plan, and
the various local, state and federal agencies that are able to help
in planning, evaluating and responding to drought conditions are listed,
along with additional agency information.
The 2002 Missouri Drought Plan, which is in a book format, provides
many helpful pointers that will be beneficial to local water suppliers
and other parties.
The new report was prepared as part of the state water planning process. Other State Water Plan volumes discuss various uses of water, rather than a lack of water.
The 2002 Missouri Drought Plan is available from the department's Geological Survey and Resource Assessment Division at Rolla - call 573-368-2125 or access the department's Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/geology/wrp/WR69.pdf.
STATE AWARDS $1.6 MILLION TO 10 COMMUNITIES
Program will protect more than 13,000 acres of Missouri watersheds
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded
$1,637,729 to 10 Missouri communities through the Conservation Reserve
and Enhancement Program (CREP). The money will be used in conjunction
with payments from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Through CREP, farmers volunteer to convert cropland in drinking water watersheds to grasses, trees and other vegetation for a period of 15 years. During this period, crops will not be grown, which will reduce the amount of pesticides, sediment and nutrients entering drinking water reservoirs.
"Planting forest buffers and filter strips on the banks of streams and rivers filters runoff water, reduces soil erosion and the risk of pathogens entering public water supplies," said Department Director Steve Mahfood. "It also improves landowner nutrient reduction goals." The Missouri Department of Conservation is offering additional incentives to landowners to plant native grasses rather than commonly used non-native species. Additionally, these voluntary conservation efforts may help communities avoid costly treatment systems.
Communities receiving funds in exchange for retiring cropland follow:
- Cameron has been awarded $61,095 to enroll more than 667 acres.
- Concordia has been awarded $116,303 to enroll 1,123 acres. The CREP program in Concordia complements an existing program funded by the city to pay farmers $7 per acre to use an alternative to atrazine herbicide.
- Hamilton has been awarded $26,950.94 to enroll 250 acres.
- Higginsville has been awarded $17,618.05 to enroll 159 acres.
- Lamar has been awarded $6,810.81 to enroll 75 acres.
- Macon Municipal Utilities has been awarded $460,894 to enroll more than 4,671 acres.
- Shelbina has been awarded $11,159.10 to enroll 119 acres.
- Smithville and Plattsburg have been awarded $728,861 to enroll more than 6,000 acres. Smithville and Plattsburg are working together to improve the quality of Smithville Reservoir. Both cities use the reservoir as a source of drinking water. The city of Smithville has been awarded the maximum $500,000, and Plattsburg will receive the remaining $228,861.
- Vandalia has been awarded $8,038 to enroll 87 acres.
For more information, call Don Scott of the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5331.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS $65,000 TO REUSE WASTE TIRES AS PLAYGROUND COVER
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $65,000 in grants to seven cities, schools and community-based programs to purchase waste tire material for use as playground cover under playground equipment. The use of waste tire material for playground cover will help protect children from injuries that may occur from falls.
Following is a list of the grants awarded:
- $10,000 to the city of Bolivar in Polk County for use at the Dunnegan Memorial Park.
- $10,000 to Lone Jack C-6 School District. Lone Jack C-6 School District for use at the Lone Jack Primary School.
- $10,000 to the city of Marceline in Linn County.
- $10,000 to the Mound City R-2 School District. The Mound City R-2 School District serves 275 student in grades K-12.
- $10,000 to the Osage County R-I School District for use at the Chamois Elementary School playground.
- $10,000 to Whole Kids Outreach Inc. in Ellington. Whole Kids Outreach Inc. is a community-based program, which works to increase education and access to social resources that would better enable families, children and youth to navigate through daily life and prepare for the future.
- $5,000 to the city of Winchester located in St. Louis County.
Missouri is committed to a significant reduction in the amount of waste generated for disposal. By reusing waste tire material, this project will help achieve that goal. The source of funding for this grant is a portion of the 50-cent fee collected from retail purchases of new tires in Missouri.
For more information about the grant program, call the department's Solid Waste Management Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401.
COMMISSION APPROVES 11 ADDITIONAL SALT PROJECTS
In May, the Soil and Water Districts Commission gave approval to 11 additional Agricultural Nonpoint Source (AgNPS) Special Area Land Treatment (SALT) projects, which started July 1, 2002. This brings the total number of active projects to 39. The 11 districts that received approval for the newest projects include Mercer, Putnam, Scotland, Carroll, Saline, Randolph, Monroe, Vernon, Hickory, Webster and Stone.
The Soil and Water Districts Commission has approved a fifth call for the AgNPS SALT project applications. The preliminary application must be submitted to the Soil and Water Conservation Program office with a postmark no later than Sept. 20, 2002. Applications receiving preliminary approval will need to submit a final application in early 2003 for implementation to being July 1, 2003. With the current SALT appropriation, there will be one or two calls for projects before the sunset of the tax. Additional calls will depend on the tax being renewed beyond 2008.
AgNPS SALT projects help reduce or prevent agricultural nonpoint source pollution in targeted watersheds. The overall goal of the AgNPS SALT program is to improve, protect and maintain the water quality of Missouri through the prevention and reduction of agricultural nonpoint source pollution.
The commission also approved a call for one pilot Agricultural Nonpoint Source project. The purpose of this project is to focus on forestry management and the effects on water resources. Districts interested in applying for this project must have their preliminary application to the Soil and Water Conservation Program office with a postmark no later that Sept. 13, 2002.
For more information contact Ken Struemph of the Department of Natural Resources at 573-751-4932.
CLEAR THE AIR WHILE WORKING IN YOUR YARD
As you push your lawn mower across your yard or trim your bushes with the gas-powered hedge clippers, you may think of the many things you need to do this week. But have you ever thought of what your lawn equipment releases into the air you're breathing?
Gas-powered lawn equipment release hazardous pollutants into the air that contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone. In one hour, a two-cycle gas mower produces more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than 20 cars. On hot, sunny days with little or no wind these VOCs from gas-powered lawn equipment and vehicles mix with oxides of nitrogen from power plants and other industrial sources to form ozone.
There are many ways to reduce the amount of pollution released by your lawn equipment and help improve the air you breathe, such as using manual or electric equipment or taking some simple precautions when using gas-powered equipment.
Manual and electric equipment release little to no emissions into the air. Using manual equipment, such as push lawn mowers, rakes and traditional hedge clippers, is not only good for the air but is also good for your health. Using these tools provides a good workout for the whole body. Electric equipment causes much less emissions than gas-powered equipment but contributes to air pollution indirectly. The electricity needed to run these tools contributes to the emissions released from the power plant.
If you do use gas-powered equipment, there are a few precautions to take in order to reduce the effect the equipment has on air quality. The handling of fuel can be a large source of VOCs. It is important to avoid spilling the fuel when refueling because the evaporated gasoline reacts to form ozone. Spills can be avoided by storing fuel in a no-spill gas can.
Just like your car, your lawn mower needs to be maintained. Proper
care of your lawn mower can reduce the amount of emissions it produces.
This includes regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter, changing
the oil, getting tune-ups and sharpening the blades.
Check your air quality forecasts. On orange or red days, wait to mow
until the evening when the emissions will have less time to react
with sunlight to form ozone. In Kansas City and St. Louis, you can
find the air quality with the weather section in the newspaper and
on the local news. In St. Louis you can also find the forecast at
www.cleanair-stlouis.com or by calling 800-LUNG-USA. In Kansas City,
check the forecast at www.marc.org.
High concentrations of ozone can cause people to have difficulty breathing, especially children, the elderly and people with asthma or other respiratory diseases. By reducing the amount of pollution released when working in your yard, you, your family and your neighbors will be able to breathe easier.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources' Air Pollution Control Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817.
YOUR CLEAN-RUNNING VEHICLE HELPS CLEAR THE AIR
For most people, your car is your most valuable possession. Your vehicle helps you pay the bills by getting you to and from work. It's reliable. It's convenient. It can be an air pollution nightmare.
Vehicular traffic is the leading source of air pollution in most U.S. cities, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Although you may not be able to see it, your car's tailpipe pumps out pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen. Hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen react on hot, sunny days to form ground-level ozone. During the summer, high levels of ground-level ozone make it difficult for many people to breathe.
That's the bad news. The good news is that there are a variety of steps you can take to make sure your car isn't a pollution machine.
Maintain your vehicle on a regular basis. When a vehicle is not properly maintained, its pollution control devices will eventually fail, causing increased emissions. The Gateway Clean Air Program emissions tested a 1994 Ford Thunderbird and results showed that it released 49.9 grams of hydrocarbons each mile (if the owner drives 12,000 miles a year, that's 1,296 pounds - or the weight of 216 gallons of gasoline). If that vehicle were properly maintained, it would have released less than 1 gram of hydrocarbons per mile, or 26 pounds - the weight of 4.3 gallons of gas. The Thunderbird failed the emissions test.
To avoid these situations of excessive emissions, you should have regular maintenance performed on your vehicles. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule listed in your owner's manual. Preventative maintenance tips are also available through the Gateway Clean Air Program.
Is your "check engine" or "service engine soon" light on? Responding quickly to this malfunction indicator light can save you money! The light notifies you when something in the engine management or emissions control system has failed or deteriorated. Early diagnosis and repair can prevent more costly repairs, such as replacing a catalytic converter. Responding to the malfunction light in a timely manner will prevent excess vehicle emissions, which improves overall air quality in the region.
Think fuel efficiency. The less fuel you burn, the less pollution comes out of your tailpipe. Over time, a fuel-efficient vehicle will save you money in refueling costs. When shopping for a new vehicle, compare the gas mileage ratings of several vehicles. More information is available on EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/autoemissions/.
If your current car is a gas-guzzler, there are ways to improve its gas mileage. Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle - leave the golf clubs in the garage; take the bag of sand out of the bed of your truck as soon as the ice disappears. Accelerate slowly and drive at a steady speed. You can improve your gas mileage about 15 percent by driving at 55 mph rather than 65 mph. Reduced gas mileage is an indication that something might be wrong with your vehicle. Take it to a repair shop for diagnosis and repair.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources' Air Pollution Control Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
The Department of Natural Resources' Environmental Assistance Office is offering an environmental training workshop entitled the Environmental Management Institute (EMI), at four separate locations this fall. EMI is a two-day workshop that features a variety of environmental and government-related topics. Local government officials, city administrators, water or sewer system district managers, decision-makers, consultants and other assistance providers will find this workshop a unique opportunity to enhance their environmental knowledge and stewardship. The workshops offer up-to-date information on issues pertinent to Missouri cities, towns and villages as well as to the unincorporated areas of the state.
Topics presented at the workshops include Planning, Public Meetings, Sunshine Law, Drinking Water, Wastewater, Hazardous Waste, Solid Waste, User Charge Analysis and Storm water. The registration fee for EMI is $75 per person, but scholarships are available from the Department of Economic Development. Lunch is provided each day as part of the registration fee. The dates and locations of the remaining sessions for this year are:
- Sept. 11-12 - Cape Girardeau, Holiday Inn
- Oct. 9-10 - Maryville, Northwest MO State University, J.W. Jones Union Building
- Oct. 23-24 - Excelsior Springs, Elms Resort and Spa
- Nov. 13-14 - Rolla, University of MO Campus, University Center West
For additional information on the workshops, or to obtain registration forms, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/oac/lgov.htm or call 800-361-4827.
EROSION CONTROL WORKSHOP AVAILABLE
The Department of Natural Resources' Environmental Assistance Office (EAO) and the Natural Resources Conservation Services are working with Homebuilder Associations, contractors, the Missouri Department of Transportation and local city and county governments to conduct short two hour Urban Erosion Control Workshops across the state. The workshops are geared toward contractors, builders and development planners in urban areas, with the goal of increasing awareness of erosion prevention techniques and practices.
Topics covered in the workshops include an overview of general erosion problems and guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Natural Resources for storm water management and permits and erosion control best management practices. The workshops conclude with an interactive slide show to demonstrate both good and bad practices, followed by a question and answer session. All participants are provided with free copies of Protecting Water Quality: A field guide to erosion, sediment and storm water best management practices for development sites.
The new Phase II Storm Water rules require many municipalities to develop storm water programs, which include a public education and outreach component. The Urban Erosion Control workshop may be just what you need to get your storm water education program rolling and off to a good start. The department is ready to travel to talk to large or small audiences. Groups interested in sponsoring workshops in their area may contact Glenn Lloyd at 800-361-4827 or 573-526-6627.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS CONTRACT FOR SHAFT CLOSURES IN JASPER COUNTY
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Land Reclamation Commission awarded an $89,000 construction contract to Kennedy Contractors Inc. of Springfield. Nine dangerous mine shafts will be closed using a variety of reclamation techniques in the Webb City area. These shafts are the result of lead and zinc mining in the area from 1848 to 1970 and pose safety hazards to landowners and citizens.
The department has been actively involved in reclamation on abandoned coal-mines since 1980. This is the first year the abandoned mine land funds have been used for non-coal reclamation. The U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining and Missouri's Land Reclamation Commission authorized the use of Missouri abandoned mine land funds for reclamation of dangerous non-coal mine shafts.
Funds for abandoned mine land projects originate from fees collected from active coal mines by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining. These funds are then disbursed to state and tribal abandoned mine land programs that have problems associated with coal mining that occurred prior to 1977.
Previous studies and inventories conducted on the lead and zinc areas in southwest Missouri indicate the possible existence of many more mine openings. The department is anticipating future abandoned mine land funds will be available to close additional dangerous shafts.
For more information on abandoned mine land or to report open shafts contact the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4041.
MISSOURI WASTE DIVERSION RATE REACHES 41 PERCENT
Statewide waste generation is up
Missouri is now diverting an estimated 41 percent of its waste generation
from landfills. However, statewide waste generation has grown to 10.6
million tons in 2001, up from 10.2 million tons in 2000. Reflecting
national trends, Missouri wastes being recycled dropped slightly to
2.18 million tons in 2001 from 2.34 million tons in 2000. The waste
diversion rate in 2000 was 38 percent.
"While Missouri waste generation continues to increase, annual waste
disposal per person in 2001 had dropped slightly from 2000 annual
levels," said Department Director Stephen Mahfood. "This may demonstrate
that the department's educational and informational efforts designed
to encourage waste reduction, reuse and recycling are gradually shifting
individual behaviors toward improved waste management practices."
In 2001, Missouri's population was estimated just over 5.6 million. Waste generation was estimated to be 10.6 million tons. Of this, 4.9 million tons went to Missouri landfills. There was 178,032 tons of solid waste imported from other states. Exported to other states were 1.4 million tons of waste, down slightly over 2001 totals. Daily per capita waste generation in Missouri was estimated at 10.32 pounds in 2001, up from 8.07 pounds per day in 1990.
For comparison, in 1990, the year Missouri began tracking waste generation, the state's population was estimated at 5.1 million people, and waste generation was an estimated 7.5 million tons. It was estimated that 10 percent, or 740,000 tons of waste, was being diverted from landfills. About 1.4 million tons of Missouri waste was going to out of state landfills, and 5.4 million tons were disposed of in Missouri facilities.
In recent years, Missouri solid waste management planners have seen indications that per capita waste generation seems linked to the economy. At present, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and solid waste planners in most other states agree that waste generation increases during periods of economic growth as consumers purchase more goods, resulting in more packaging waste and more worn-out items being thrown away.
"Missourians throw away more trash than any of our neighboring states," said Mahfood. "But at 0.70 tons per person, Missouri's per capita recycling rate is significantly higher than that of the surrounding states."
For more information on Missouri's waste diversion efforts, contact Dennis Hansen at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401. Visit the department's Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov for information on recycling and other solid waste management issues.
Missouri Newspapers Use Less Recycled Paper
Missouri newspapers have reported a decline in their 2001 efforts to close the recycling loop. The statewide average use of recycled content newsprint by Missouri newspaper publishers is 34 percent. This is down from an average of 43 percent reported in 2000 and 1999.
In 2001, 75 Missouri newspapers reported recycled content usage to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Sixty-nine percent met or exceeded the 50 percent goal for 2001 and beyond. Eighty percent of the 70 newspapers reporting in 2000 met the 50 percent goal. Seventy-five percent of the newspapers reporting in 1999 met the 40 percent goal that was in effect in 1999. Six newspapers used 100 percent recycled content newsprint in 2001. This is down from 41 newspapers using 100 percent recycled content newsprint in 2000.
Under current state law, newspapers with an average daily, or on day of publication, distribution of 15,000 or more must report how much recycled content newsprint they use. Or they must claim exemptions with explanations why recycled content was not used. Eleven of those seeking exemptions cited inferior quality issues; eight cited a lack of adequate supplies of recycled content newsprint; one said recycled content newsprint was more expensive than alternatives and three claimed a combination of supply and cost issues.
"There is no definitive explanation for why some publications were unable to procure a satisfactory supply of recycled content newsprint," said department Director Steve Mahfood.
Department staff contacts with newsprint manufacturers and distributors indicate that adequate supplies of recycled content newsprint are available to Missouri printers and newspaper publishers. These increasing supplies should provide increased usage of recycled content newsprint by next year, according to industry representatives. It was noted by industry contacts that newspapers have simply used less newsprint in 2001 due to general declines in circulation. In regard to quality, efforts to improve the economics of publishing, such as printing on narrower pages or buying cheaper newsprint, may result in increased paper breaks on the presses, according to newsprint suppliers.
In 2001, reporting newspapers used 201,617 tons of newsprint; 67,861 tons were recycled content. Both totals are for less tonnage than was used in 2000 and 1999. The 52 newspapers that met or exceeded the 50 percent usage goal in 2001 had used 16,006 tons of newsprint; eight percent of the total tonnage reported. Of this, 11,309 tons were recycled content; 17 percent of the recycled tonnage use reported.
For more information contact the department's Solid Waste Management Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETINGS
The Missouri Hazardous Waste Management Commission Meeting will hold a public meeting at 9 a.m., Sept. 26, at the Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza, 4445 Main St.
For more information call Robbin Stout, Commission Secretary at 800-361-4827 or 573-522-1687.
SOIL AND WATER DISTRICTS COMMISSION AND MISSOURI CLEAN WATER COMMISSION TO MEET SEPT. 5
The Missouri Soil and Water Districts Commission and the Missouri Clean Water Commission will hold a joint meeting at 9 a.m., Sept. 5 at Department of Natural Resources' Conference Center 1738 E. Elm St., Jefferson City.
For more information call Alice Schultz, Missouri Soil and Water Districts
Commission Secretary at 573-751-4932 or Diane Waidelich, Missouri
Clean Water Commission Secretary at 573-751-1300. Either can be
reached at 800-361-4827.
SAFE DRINKING WATER COMMISSION TO MEET SEPT. 12
The Missouri Safe Drinking Water Commission will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m., Sept. 12 at the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Conference Center, 1738 E. Elm St., Jefferson City. Items to be discussed include priority points for the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund and the proposed public notice and arsenic rules.
For more information, call Cynthia Bowser of the Department of Natural Resources' Public Drinking Water Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5331.
MISSOURI AIR CONSERVATION COMMISSION HOSTS PUBLIC HEARING AUG. 29
The Missouri Air Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on rule actions at 9 a.m., Aug. 29, at the Harry S Truman State Office Building, Room 490, 301 W. High Street, Jefferson City. The commission will hear testimony related to the rescission of Control of Emissions From Perchloroethylene Dry Cleaning Installations Rules. The two rules are proposed for rescission because they are obsolete and have been superseded by statewide requirements in regulation 10 CSR 10-6.075.
The above documents will be available for review at the following Missouri Department of Natural Resources locations:
- Air Pollution Control Program, 205 Jefferson St., Jefferson City, 573-751-4817;
- Jefferson City Regional Office, 210 Hoover Road, Jefferson City, 573-751-2729;
- Kansas City Regional Office, 500 NE Colbern Road, Lee's Summit, 816-622-7000;
- Northeast Regional Office, 1709 Prospect Drive, Macon, 660-385-2129;
- Southeast Regional Office, 2155 N. Westwood Blvd., Poplar Bluff, 573-840-9750;
- St. Louis Regional Office, 9200 Watson Road, St. Louis, 314-301-7600;
- Southwest Regional Office, 2040 W. Woodland, Springfield, 417-891-4300.
People requiring special services or wishing to speak at the meeting can make arrangements by calling 800-361-4827 or 573-751-7840 or by writing two weeks in advance of the meeting to Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Air Conservation Commission Secretary, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Hearing impaired persons may contact the program through Relay Missouri, 800-735-2966.
The department requests people intending to give verbal presentations also provide a written copy of their testimony to the commission secretary at the time of the public hearing. The department also will accept written comments for the record until 5 p.m. on Sept. 5, 2002. Please send two copies of written comments to Chief, Planning Section, Department of Natural Resources, Air Pollution Control Program, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or fax to 573-751-2706.
Rule proposals considered at this hearing may be adopted by the Missouri Air Conservation Commission as provided for under authority of 643.050, RSMo.
For more information or a complete meeting agenda, including rules being presented for adoption, contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817.
SEVENTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONEMENTAL EDUCATION TO BE HELD NOV. 22-24
The Missouri Environmental Education Association and the Office of Environmental Education announce the seventh annual Conference on Environmental Education to be held Nov. 22-24, at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach. People who attend this conference will learn about innovative environmental education efforts throughout Missouri, take home environmental education activities, join other educators and obtain college credit if desired.
This conference typically draws about 350 formal and non-formal educators from across Missouri to explore current issues and trends in environmental education and share ideas for improving environmental literacy.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-526-6627, or visit www.successlink.org.
RUN, WALK, HOP OR FLY TO THE FOURTH ANNUAL ENDANGERED SPECIES WALK/RUN
The fourth annual Endangered Species Walk/Run will be held Saturday, Oct. 19. There will be three races; a 10k run, 5k run and 5k walk, all on the KATY Trail in north Jefferson City. Event headquarters will be the North Jefferson City Park pavilion at the intersection of highways 63 and 54.
Participants and volunteers will receive long-sleeved T-shirts with artwork created by Conservation Department artist Mark Raithel. The artwork features species of conservation concern that live in prairies, with the natural community being highlighted at this year's race.
Registration is $15 for participants 15 and older, and $10 for those 14 and younger. Entry forms are available from Endangered Species Walk/Run, Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180, or call 573-751-4115 ext. 3807. Registration forms can also be found at www.missouriconservation.org and type in keyword: walkrun.
T-shirts are available for a donation of $18 for those wishing not
to participate. Just make a note of it on the registration form.
This year's walk/run is sponsored by the Missouri departments of Natural
Resources and Conservation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Jefferson
City Parks and Recreation and several other conservation organizations.
Contributions generated from the walk/run will benefit endangered species by funding recovery, research, protection and education activities. More than 500 walkers and runners participated last year to support Missouri's endangered plants and animals.
RULE UPDATE
For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources' Air and Land Protection Division at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-6892.
