U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency (Region 7)

Communities Information Digest

January 29, 2013 Find us @ www.facebook.com/eparegion7 or https://twitter.com/eparegion7. Note: New items are in *asterisks*.

News

*EPAs 2011 Toxics Release Inventory Shows Air Pollutants Continue to Decline - Total Toxic Chemicals Increase Due to Mining* Total toxic air releases in 2011 declined 8 percent from 2010, mainly due to decreases in hazardous air pollutant (HAP) emissions, even while total releases of toxic chemicals increased for the second year in a row, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) annual Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) report published recently. The annual TRI provides citizens with vital information about their communities. The TRI program collects information on certain toxic chemical releases to the air, water and land, as well as information on waste management and pollution prevention activities by facilities across the country. TRI data are submitted annually to EPA, states and tribes by facilities in industry sectors such as manufacturing, metal mining, electric utilities, and commercial hazardous waste facilities. The Toxics Release Inventory provides widespread access to valuable environmental information. It plays a critical role in EPAs efforts to hold polluters accountable and identify and acknowledge those who take steps to prevent pollution, said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. Since 1998, we have recorded a steady decline in the amount of TRI chemicals released into the air, and since 2009 alone, we have seen more than a 100 million pound decrease in TRI air pollutants entering our communities. This remarkable success is due in part to the TRI program and concerted efforts by industry, regulators and public interest groups to clean up the air we all depend upon. The 2011 TRI data show that 4.09 billion pounds of toxic chemicals were disposed of or released into the environment (i.e., air, water or land), an 8 percent increase from 2010. The difference is mainly due to increases in land disposal at metal mines, which typically involve large facilities handling large volumes of material. In this sector, even a small change in the chemical composition of the ore being mined - which EPA understands is one of the asserted reasons for the increase in total reported releases - can lead to big changes in the amount of toxic chemicals reported nationally. For more information on the 2011 TRI analysis and TRI web-based tools, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/tri/NationalAnalysis. For more on facility efforts to reduce toxic chemical releases, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/tri/p2.

*USDA Finalizes New Microloan Program - Microloans up to $35,000 to Assist Small Farmers, Veterans, and Disadvantaged Producers* Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced a new microloan program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designed to help small and family operations, beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers secure loans under $35,000. The new microloan program is aimed at bolstering the progress of producers through their start-up years by providing needed resources and helping to increase equity so that farmers may eventually graduate to commercial credit and expand their operations. The microloan program will also provide a less burdensome, more simplified application process in comparison to traditional farm loans. "I have met several small and beginning farmers, returning veterans and disadvantaged producers interested in careers in farming who too often must rely on credit cards or personal loans with high interest rates to finance their start-up operations," said Vilsack. "By further expanding access to credit to those just starting to put down roots in farming, USDA continues to help grow a new generation of farmers, while ensuring the strength of an American agriculture sector that drives our economy, creates jobs, and provides the most secure and affordable food supply in the world." Producers can apply for a maximum of $35,000 to pay for initial start-up expenses such as hoop houses to extend the growing season, essential tools, irrigation, delivery vehicles, and annual expenses such as seed, fertilizer, utilities, land rents, marketing, and distribution expenses. As their financing needs increase, applicants can apply for an operating loan up to the maximum amount of $300,000 or obtain financing from a commercial lender under the Farm Service Agencys (FSA) Guaranteed Loan Program. USDA farm loans can be used to purchase land, livestock, equipment, feed, seed, and supplies, or be to construct buildings or make farm improvements. Small farmers often rely on credit cards or personal loans, which carry high interest rates and have less flexible payment schedules, to finance their operations. Expanding access to credit, USDA's microloan will provide a simple and flexible loan process for small operations. Producers interested in applying for a microloan may contact their local FSA office. For more information, please visit: http://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDAOC-66feb4. *Reduce Lung Cancer Risk in 2013 by Testing Your Home for Radon Gas* As part of National Radon Action Month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced steps the public can take to test, fix and save a life from dangerous radon gas. Testing for radon is one of the easiest and smartest things people can do to protect their homes and families from this serious health risk, said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and Radiation. Addressing high radon levels greatly reduces exposure to the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon occurs naturally from the decay of uranium in the soil and can accumulate to dangerous levels inside the home. Elevated levels of the colorless, odorless gas are the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Elevated levels of this health hazard in homes, schools, workplaces, and other buildings can be prevented through these simple steps: Test: All buildings with or without basements should be tested for radon. Affordable Do-It-Yourself radon test kits are available online and at home improvement and hardware stores, or a qualified radon tester can be hired. Fix: EPA recommends taking action to fix radon levels at or above 4 picoCuries per Liter (pCi/L) and contacting a qualified radon-reduction contractor. Save a Life: 21,000 Americans die from radon related lung cancer each year, but by addressing elevated levels, you can help prevent lung cancer while creating a healthier home and community. EPA continues to work with Federal, State and local partners on the Federal Radon Action Plan to educate the public about the dangers of radon exposure. For more information on how to test, find a qualified radon professional, obtain a test kit or contact your state radon office: http://www.epa.gov/radon or call 1-800-SOS-RADON. For more information on the Federal Radon Action Plan, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/radon/action_plan.html. Reminder: Equitable Development Workshop - February 6, Kansas City, Missouri Registration ($18) is now open for the Equitable Development Workshop--Sustainable Neighborhoods, Thriving Residents: Strategies for Building Equitable Communities--on Feb. 6, from 1:00-6:30 p.m., in Kansas City, Missouri. The workshop is part of the New Partners for Smart

Growth Conference. Participants will explore how low-income, minority, tribal, and other overburdened communities are integrating land use and economic development strategies to revitalize their neighborhoods and build residents' skills and wealth. Leaders from community-based organizations, local and regional governments, economic development agencies, and businesses will share how they are knitting together planning, infrastructure investment, development policies, workforce training, business assistance, entrepreneurship, and other approaches to improve the physical environment, capitalize on local assets, create jobs, avoid displacement, and encourage inclusive and enduring economic growth. The agenda includes two plenaries and three training sessions: Opening Plenary - Neighborhood Revitalization and Economic Development from the Bottom Up Training Session 1 - Supporting Small Businesses and Multicultural Commercial Districts Training Session 2 - Using Regional Equity Indicators to Increase Opportunity for All Residents Training Session 3 - Partnering with Industrial Neighbors to Create Healthy, Sustainable and Prosperous Communities Closing Plenary - The Outlook for Equitable Development Attendees are encouraged to stay for the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference (same location, Feb. 7-9), which will feature multiple sessions and tours with environmental justice themes. A limited number of Diversity Scholarships are still available to offset conference registration fees and provide travel assistance to leaders from low-income and minority communities and representatives from organizations whose work is primarily focused on social equity or environmental justice. Priority for scholarship funds will be given to those who are planning to attend the entire conference. Register for the Equitable Development Workshop at http://secure.newpartners.org/confReg. The workshop and tours are listed toward the end of the page. Learn more about registration and scholarships for the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference at: http://www.newpartners.org/registration-scholarships/.

Funding Opportunities
January 31: Sustainable Landscapes, Clean Energy and Adaptation-USAID http://www.grants.gov/search/synopsis.do;jsessionid=v12VQ9PhHBnrg4fqhQQmwqPPKmpg3v1nwrFNVpQ3lWWVK2V2KGGL!-1413871233 February 5: Source Reduction Assistance Grant Program http://www.epa.gov/p2/pubs/grants/srap/srap13.pdf February 7: Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program 2013 Request for Proposals www.nfwf.org/easygrants. March 1: EPA Request for Proposals: Increasing Community Awareness and Use of Environmental Information through Education and Outreach http://www.epa.gov/tri/rfp/index.html *March 5: Citizens' Institute on Rural DesignRequest for Proposals http www.rural-design.org/ March 13: Economic Development Assistance Programs Federal Funding Opportunity http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=knDpQzXGJ6gWnzy1h6Tn3D1fjKBNK9Fw40vlTDxWx3xrJGpLpCN4!861966415?oppId=208353&mode=VIEW *April 8: NOAA Climate Program Office (up to $3.5 million) http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=ZtTQQzVNwtbp1bQ7S4NNLNFhWK1f5QwgF0QpBkLmwpMtjhQQ2dTk!1702133586?oppI d=213994&mode=VIEW

Meetings, Conferences, & Events

January 30 31: Community Builders Summit 2013 Bozeman, Montana http://www.sonoraninstitute.org/where-we-work/northernrockies/community-builders-summit.html February 6: Equitable Development Workshop http://secure.newpartners.org/confReg February 7-9: 12th Annual 2013 New Partners for Smart Growth Conference Kansas City, Missouri http://www.newpartners.org/ *February 13-15: Healthy Housing Leadership Conference Washington DC http://www.nchh.org/conference/. February 16: Crafting Corridors: Reinventing the Urban Street Philadelphia, Pennsylvania http://nextcity.org/daily/entry/craftingcorridors-reinventing-the-urban-street February 19: Sustainable Development through Form-Based Codes Portland, Oregon http://www.planning.org/pts/oneday/2013/feb19.htm February 19: Financial Options for Energy-Related Projects Workshop Kansas City, Missouri https://www.marc2.org/iEBMS/reg/reg_p1_form.aspx?oc=10&ct=STDASC&eventid=15039 *February 22-24: Green Schools National Conference West Palm Beach, Florida http://www.greenschoolsnationalconference.org/ February 25: DOE Solar Forecasting Metrics Workshop Salt Lake City, Utah http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/solar/newsletter/detail.cfm/articleId=326 *March 1-2: Gulf of Mexico Environmental Justice Conference Biloxi, Mississippi http://epa.gov/gmpo/ March 5-7: BuildingEnergy 2013 Boston, Massachusetts http://www.nesea.org/buildingenergy/ March 13-14: Greenprints Conference 2013 Atlanta, Georgia http://www.greenprints.org/ March 13-15: Feeding Cities: Food Security in a Rapidly Urbanizing World Philadelphia, Pennsylvania http://www.feedingcities.com/ *March 13-15: Western Boot Camp on Environmental Law San Francisco, California http://www.eli.org/Bootcamp/west_main.cfm May 15-17: Brownfields Conference Atlanta, Georgia http://www.brownfieldsconference.org/en/home?pub=1&issue=8 May 29-June 1: Congress for New Urbanism21st Annual Conference Salt Lake City, Utah http://www.cnu21.org/ June 23-27: Making Cities LivableReshaping Suburbia into Completely Healthy Communities Portland, Oregon http://www.livablecities.org/conferences/50th-conference-portland July 9-11: National Environmental Health Association Annual Conference Washington, DC. http://neha2013aec.org/ July 21-27: Hands-On PV Experience (HOPE) Workshop Golden, Colorado http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/solar/newsletter/detail.cfm/articleId=316 September 9-11: Reclaiming Vacant Properties5th National Conference Philadelphia, Pennsylvania http://www.communityprogress.net/2013-reclaiming-vacant-properties-conference-pages356.php?utm_source=RVP+Announcement+final+Nov+1.+&utm_campaign=2013+RVP+Announcement+Nov+1&utm_medium=email November 21: Massachusetts Smart Growth Conference Boston, Massachusetts http://ma-smartgrowth.org/take-action/smart-growthconference/ta_111112_save-the-date-postcard/

Webinars & Conference Calls

*Innovative Public Involvement Techniques for Comprehensive and Regional Planning: Lessons from Every Scale, January 30, 10-11:30 a.m.* How do you achieve broad community inclusion across the scales of town, city and region? How is social media and web-based participation used to increase participation? At what scale do you need to conduct multiple charrettes? Creating a public process that builds local capacity and sets the framework for near-term implementation. Comp Plans and Regional Plans have been reinvented using the charrette and online engagement. This session will compare and contrast the stories of three very different sized projects: The Comprehensive Plan for Hammond, Louisiana (pop. 20,000); Plan El Paso the Comprehensive Plan for El Paso, Texas (pop. 800,000); and Seven50, the Southeast Florida Prosperity Plan funded by the US Office of SustainableHousing and Communities (seven counties, pop. 6 million). Project leaders will discuss the strategies and tools for achieving broad demographic and socioeconomic representation throughout these projects. Use of social media, online newsletters, virtual town halls, online polling, and smartphone apps are discussed. Hear how online participation, in-person meetings, local charrettes and regional summits were combined in different ways for maximum public participation. For more information, please visit: https://shop.charretteinstitute.org/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=WEB1-13. EPA Webinar Seeks Public Comment on Working Draft of Policy on Environmental Justice for Tribes and Indigenous Peoples, January 31, 1:30-3:00 p.m. (EST) In order to more effectively work with federally-recognized tribes and indigenous stakeholders to address their environmental justice concerns, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a Policy on Environmental Justice for Tribes and Indigenous Peoples. The Agency is seeking public comment on the Working Draft of the policy until February 15, 2013. The webinar is January 31. To register, please visit: https://epa.connectsolutions.com/t-i-ej-policy-public-3/ Conference Number: 1-866-299-3188, Access code: 2025642576, Meeting Time: 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM EST A copy of the Working Draft, Notification of Public Comment, and other information on the development of the policy can be found at: http://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/indigenous/index.html. *Community Conference Call on U.S. EPA's Proposed Air Rules, February 6, 1:00pm-2:30 p.m. (EST)* Conference Line: 1-866-299-3188; code: 919-541-5624# (The phone line is limited to 125 participants on a first-come first-served basis). Purpose: To provide information on upcoming activities in EPA's Air Programs and foster a dialog with communities on their air quality issues. EPA's Air Programs and Regulations. On December 20, 2012, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a specific set of adjustments to Clean Air Act standards, originally finalized in March 2011, for boilers and certain solid waste incinerators. These adjustments maintain extensive public health protections achieved by the March 2011 standards by reducing toxic air pollution, including mercury and particle pollution. At the same time, these adjustments increase the rules' flexibility and address concerns raised by stakeholders. The specific set of adjustments address new data provided to the agency and additional information about real-world performance and conditions under which affected boilers and incinerators operate. These adjustments maintain the dramatic cuts in the cost of implementation that were achieved in the final standards issued in March 2011. For more information on the conference call, contact Lena Epps-Price (eppsprice.lena@epa.gov) or (919) 541-5573. For more information, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/airquality/cement/actions.html. To register for

the call, please visit: http://cfpub.epa.gov/oarweb/ejcall/. *Department of Energy Webinar Energy Literacy February 6, 4:00-5:00 p.m. (EST)* The Department of Energy will present a live webcast, titled "An Energy Literate Citizenry from K-to-Gray," on Wednesday, February 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The Energy Literacy: Essential Principles and Fundamental Concepts for Energy Education document provides a framework of seven essential principles every citizen should know to be energy literate. This webinar will detail the Energy Literacy Framework, its conception through multiple partners, current activities (including its translation into Spanish), and highlight other available energy education resources. Register to attend the webinar. *Webinar: Getting those BIG office Buildings to Recycle! February 7, 1:00-2:30 p.m. (EST)* This webinar will focus on recycling professionals who have successfully worked with property managers and others to set up and run programs to recycle paper, OCC and containers from several large office buildings, government and commercial. During this webinar you will hear about: - Who are the right people to contact - How to work with the building's owners, employees and custodial staff to start a good recycling program - How to ensure staying power of your recycling program To register, please visit: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/611857762. *Webinar: Low Impact Development and Smart GrowthHow are They Best Integrated and Utilized in our Communities? May 15, 12:00-1:00 p.m. (EST) (repeated at 7:00-8:00 p.m.)* This webinar from Penn State Extension will help planners, elected officials, and concerned citizens come together to make better land use decisions using Smart Growth principles. Planning tools and resources available to decision-makers will be discussed, as well as how to engage in planning to benefit your community. For more information, please visit: http://www.feedingcities.com/.

Green Schools

*Building Environmental Education Communities Small Grants - Webinar on February 15* Earth Force is working with the EPA on an environmental education/service-learning grant that focuses on building community collaboration around youth addressing environmental and community issues. Building EE Communities supports consortium of 3-5 organizations coming together around youth addressing environmental issues in their communities. Each organization supporting the goals of the consortium can receive up to $5K. Altogether, the consortium can submit a request for up to $25K for its project. Applications must be submitted electronically by February 28, 2013 by 11:59 pm MST (Mountain Standard Time) to Cara Lynch via email: clynch@earthforce.org. Earth Force a webinar to

prepare and support consortia through the application process. The webinar will focus on specifics of EE consortia goals and how they meet the Building EE Communities priorities. After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the training. At least one member of each applying consortia must attend this webinar. Please join us February 15, 2013 at 10 a.m. CST on GoToTraining: https://attendee.gototraining.com/r/2614553236690193152. *US Forest Service Announces Rural Schools Funding - More than $320 million to be distributed under reauthorized program* Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced that over $323 million will be paid to 41 states and Puerto Rico in two distributions to support local schools and roads as part of the Congressional one-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community SelfDetermination Act. "These payments are part of the Department of Agriculture's long-standing commitment to rural communities, schools and American youth," said Vilsack. "Our century-long support of America's public schools and roads is one of many ways in which the Forest Service, as a good neighbor and partner, contributes to rural communities becoming self-sustaining and prosperous." The actual amount of each state's payment is determined by a number of factors written into the law, including how many counties ultimately decide to share in that payment. Each county's share of their state's payment amounts can be found on the Forest Service Web site at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/pts/securepayments/projectedpayments. *Green Schools National Conference: February 22-24, West Palm Beach, Florida* The Green Schools National Network (GSNN) advances the national green and healthy schools movement by connecting like-minded and passionate education, non-profit, corporate and public sector individuals and organizations. This conference provides a chance to interact with researchers, policymakers, and practitioners at Solution Summits and solve some of the barriers to greening all schools. To register and learn more visit: http://www.greenschoolsnationalconference.org/. *NOAAs New Environmental Literacy Grants Funding Opportunity* NOAAs Office of Education (OEd) has issued a request for applications for projects designed to build the capacity of informal educators (including interpreters and docents) and/or formal educators (pre- or in-service) to use NOAA data and data access tools to help K-12 students and/or the public understand and respond to global change. Successful projects will enhance educators' ability to use the wealth of scientific data, data visualizations, data access technologies, information products, and other assets available through NOAA (plus additional sources, if desired) to engage K-12 students and/or other members of the public in a minimum of two U.S. states or territories. This funding opportunity identifies two priority categories of eligible applicants, both of equal importance. Eligible applicants for Priority 1 are collaborative teams of two or more U.S. institutions. Eligible applicants for Priority 2 are collaborative teams of two or more non-profit U.S. aquariums, of which at least one must be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Collaborative applicant teams in both Priority 1 and Priority 2 are strongly encouraged to include at least one applicant that has not previously received a grant from NOAA's Environmental Literacy Grants program. Proposed projects in each priority must be between two and five years in duration and have combined federal requests of $500,000 - $1,000,000 for all years of the project. The deadline for applications to this funding opportunity is 11:59:59 pm EST on March 12, 2013. Applications must be submitted online via www.grants.gov. It is anticipated that awards under this announcement will be made by September 30, 2013 and that the projects funded under this announcement will have a start date no earlier than October 1, 2013. -Informational Webinars: Two informational webinars with the program officers will occur on February 5, 2013 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm EST and February 6, 2013, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm EST. By noon EST on February 1, 2013, interested applicants should register by contacting oed.grants@noaa.gov and including in the Subject line of the email: "Register for Educator Capacity Building FFO Webinar" and providing the interested party's name, institution, telephone number, email address and preferred webinar date in the body of the email. You will receive an email response from oed.grants@noaa.gov with the log-in information and date for the webinar. Whenever possible, individuals from the same institution should try to join the webinar from the same computer/phone line. To read the full funding announcement, visit www.grants.gov.

Webinar: Bed Bugs Go to School, January 30, 2:30-4:00 p.m. (EST) As the pest populations boom, bed bugs can, and will hitchhike into your school. The school can be bed bug free one day and have bed bugs brought in the next. For school administrators and facilities managers, bed bugs arriving at the school can be a recipe for big headaches. The formula for success in dealing with bed bugs is to prepare for the inevitable, and educate everyone. This presentation discusses why bed bugs are such a challenge and how you can be proactive. The key is to educate everyone, as much as possible to stop bed bugs at their source, 99% of the time this is the home. To do this you must engage the entire school community by educating the administration, maintenance and custodial staff, faculty, staff, students and especially the parents. Next, develop a school-specific written "bed bug action plan" in advance of problems including the development of specific procedures and responsibilities when responding to a bed bug sightings, incidents, and possible bites on students, and things to avoid. The presentation also reviews how and where to inspect for bed bugs, how to manage bed bugs with control tactics that are consistent with school IPM guidelines and regulations; and bed bug prevention such as reducing hiding spaces through clutter containment and removal, limiting the items being brought to school, and proper coat and backpack storage. Finally we address avoiding litigation due to bed bugs. Reserve your Webinar seat now at: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/370459689. Clean Air Project - Educational Resources Linking Air Quality and Health Applications Due February 8 The Clean Air Project is seeking partners (applicants) to build capacity for environmental stewardship focused on air quality and human health. Awards are for educational institutions and other not-for-profit organizations educating youth. The maximum award is $5,000. Funding is provided for the following types of activities: -Developing lesson plans -Providing or implementing lesson plans/ curriculum related to air quality and health -Community action projects For questions or assistance contact: Krysten Crews, crewsk@njhealth.org or 303-270-2733. Applications are due February 8, 2013. For more information please visit: www.capk-12.org. The application can be downloaded at: www.capk-12.org/apply-for-funding. Apply for EPAs National Environmental Leadership Award in Asthma Management Applications Due February 12 Apply today for EPAs National Environmental Leadership Award in Asthma Management for the opportunity to be nationally recognized for delivering exceptional environmental asthma management in your school and in your community. Award winners receive a number of benefits including: 1. A place in the Hall of Fame among 26 of the nation's top leaders in asthma management. 2. National recognition for your achievements during Asthma Awareness Month (May 2013). 3. An engraved, crystal award. 4. Customized press materials to promote your accomplishments in your community. 5. The opportunity to serve as mentors to other programs and share best practices. School-based asthma management programs should apply in the Communities in Action category. Check out the Getting Started page, the FAQs, the Distinguishing Features for schools located in the Communities in Action Application Guidelines and Evaluation Criteria, and the sample Communities in Action application. Application deadline is February 12, 2013, 11:59 p.m. EST For more information, please visit: http://www.asthmaawards.info/awards/apply. EPA Webinar: Integrated Pest Management in Schools, March 6, 2:00-3:00 p.m. Pests and pesticides pose risks to the nearly 60 million children and staff who spend considerable periods of time in our nation's schools. EPA

recommends that schools use an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to reduce the economic and health related issues caused by pests and pesticides. This webinar will describe basics of school IPM, the potential health, environmental and economic benefits, and what it takes to put IPM into practice. To register, please visit: http://www2.ed.gov/programs/green-ribbon-schools/webinar.html.

Other Community Related Information & Events

*Energy Department Launches Clean Energy Economy Web Tool* The Energy Department on January 9 announced a new interactive online tool to help researchers, educators, and students explore future U.S. energy-use scenarios. The Buildings, Industry, Transportation, and Electricity Scenarios (BITES) tool allows users to adjust inputs, such as electricity generation and transportation fuel use, to compare carbon dioxide emissions outcomes and impacts on the U.S. energy mix. The energy-use scenarios and analytical framework behind BITES were originally developed for the Energy Department's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy by the Department's National Renewable Energy Laboratory to help identify and implement new research and technical opportunities that will have the greatest impact on achieving our national energy goals. The BITES tool demonstrates that continued technology and policy deployment is needed in every energy sector to meet U.S. climate and energy security goals. BITES can also be a useful tool for students and educators who focus on how research, policy, or other forms of national action can impact U.S. energy use. See the Energy Department's Progress Alert at: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=825. *Seeking Nominations for EPA Pesticide Dialogue Committee, a Federal Advisory Committee* Summary: Pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Office of Pesticide Programs is inviting nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment to the Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC). EPA values and welcomes diversity. In an effort to obtain nominations of diverse candidates, EPA encourages nominations of women and men of all racial and ethnic groups. Vacancies are expected to be filled by early spring 2013. We would appreciate hearing back from interested persons no later than February 1, 2013.Nominations should be emailed or submitted in writing to: Margie Fehrenbach, Designated Federal Official Office of Pesticide Programs (7501P) Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Washington, DC 20460-0001 telephone number: (703) 308-4775 fax number: (703) 308-4776 email address: fehrenbach.margie@epa.gov. *SunShot Incubator Program Announces Eighth Round of Funding* The Energy Department is accepting concept papers for the SunShot Incubator Program for projects to accelerate the transition of solar

energy innovation from the laboratory to the marketplace. To date, the SunShot Incubator Program has awarded more than $90 million to more than 50 small businesses to develop their products and bring their innovations to market. This eighth funding round expands on previous Incubator rounds to support both hardware improvement and soft cost reduction goals, while helping companies transition early-stage ideas to prototype phases or move prototype phases to commercial launch. For more information, please visit: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/sunshot/financial_opps_detail.html?sol_id=564. *Technical Assistance Opportunity at DOE Test Centers* The Energy Department is offering technical assistance to the photovoltaic (PV) industry and other stakeholders through validation testing and systems monitoring at the DOE Regional Test Centers (RTCs). Recipients of technical assistance through the Regional Test Centers: Validation of Photovoltaic (PV) Modules and Systems opportunity will have access to three RTC sites for PV module or system testing. For more information, please visit: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/sunshot/financial_opps_detail.html?sol_id=488. *New Report: Infrastructure Financing Options for Transit-Oriented Development* The report, Infrastructure Financing Options for Transit-Oriented Development, provides communities with a comprehensive guide of tools and strategies that are available for financing and funding infrastructure for transit-oriented development (TOD). The report provides examples of how some communities are using specific tools for individual infrastructure components, as well as strategies for combining and bundling tools to create plans that address construction phasing and market growth over time. The report: Identifies dozens of financing mechanisms and strategies that communities can use. Showcases how 11 communities are using finance tools and funding sources to implement TOD. Introduces four innovative models communities could consider for their TOD planning. Explains how community context and market factors affect the types of financing tools or funding strategies that communities can use. EPA delivered this report through its Smart Growth Implementation Assistance Program, which helps tribal, state, regional, and local governments explore smart growth strategies to overcome development-related challenges. To view the report, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/infra_financing.htm. *Energy Department Announces New Funding to Support Sustainable, Cost-Effective Biofuels from Algae* As part of the Energy Department's efforts to diversify the nation's energy portfolio and support America's energy entrepreneurs and innovators, the Department today announced up to $10 million to help unlock the potential of biofuels made from algae. The funding will support research projects aimed at boosting the productivity of algae cultivation systems and developing and demonstrating effective, energyefficient, and low-cost algae harvest and processing technologies, such as centrifugation and extraction. For more information, please visit: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=828. *Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee Lead Review Panel* A public meeting of the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC) Lead Review Panel will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2013, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time) and on Wednesday, February 6, 2013, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). The CASAC will conduct a peer review of EPAs Integrated Science Assessment for Lead (Third External Review DraftNovember 2012) and EPAs Policy Assessment for the Review of the Lead National Ambient Air Quality Standards (First External Review DraftJanuary 2013). A follow-up public teleconference of the CASAC Lead Review Panel will be held on Monday, April 1, 2013, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). For more information, see the Federal Register Notice: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-01-07/pdf/2013-00050.pdf. *EPA Recommends New Recreational Water Quality Criteria to Better Protect Public Health* Pursuant to an order from a U.S. District Court and as required by the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 2000,

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today recommended new recreational water quality criteria for states that will help protect peoples health during visits to beaches and waters year round. The strengthened recommendations include: - A short-term and long-term measure of bacteria levels that are to be used together to ensure that water quality is properly evaluated. - Stronger recommendations for coastal water quality so public health is protected similarly in both coastal and fresh waters. - A new rapid testing method that states can use to determine if water quality is safe within hours of water samples being taken. - An early-alert approach for states to use to quickly issue swimming advisories for the public. - Tools that allow states to predict water quality problems and identify sources of pollution, as well as to develop criteria for specific beaches. To view the Fact Sheet, please visit: http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/standards/criteria/health/recreation/upload/factsheet2012.pdf. For more information, please visit: http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/standards/criteria/health/recreation/index.cfm. *Lead; Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program for Public and Commercial Buildings; Request for Information and Advance Notice of Public Meeting* In 2010, EPA issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (2010 ANPRM) concerning renovation, repair, and painting activities on and in public and commercial buildings. EPA is in the process of determining whether these activities create lead-based paint hazards, and, for those that do, developing certification, training, and work practice requirements as directed by the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This document opens a comment period to allow for additional data and other information to be submitted by the public and interested stakeholders. This document also provides advance notice of EPAs plan to hold a public meeting on June 26, 2013. Comments must be received on or before April 1, 2013. For more information, visit: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-12-31/pdf/2012-31532.pdf. *LEED Clean Construction Pilot Credit Available* The US Green Building Council recently announced that a Clean Construction Pilot Credit can be used toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Applicants who earn this credit will reduce the release of diesel emissions during the construction phase of a green building project, minimizing the health impacts to on-site workers and in adjacent communities. The LEED Pilot Credit Library is designed to test new and revised LEED credit language, alternative compliance paths, and new or innovative green building technologies and concepts. The Clean Construction Pilot Credit includes: Pollution standards for on-road and nonroad equipment; Idling limits; Staging area requirements; and Data gathering. A three year transition period allows for newer, cleaner equipment to penetrate the marketplace. For more information, please visit: http://new.usgbc.org/articles/new-and-updated-pilot-credits. *EPAs New Voluntary Program to Help Reduce Harmful Soot Pollution* The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a new voluntary clean air program, 'PM Advance,' to help communities continue to meet soot pollution standards, improve air quality and protect public health. PM Advance focuses on working with communities to develop strategies for reducing harmful fine particle emissions. Soot, also known as fine particle pollution (PM2.5), can penetrate deep into the lungs and has been linked to a wide range of serious health effects, including premature death, heart attacks, and strokes, as well as acute bronchitis and aggravated asthma among children. The PM Advance program is designed to help communities who meet current standards continue to meet the standards. Early work to reduce fine particles, such as PM Advance participation, can be incorporated into required planning. Through the program, participants will commit to taking specific steps to reduce fine particle pollution, such as putting in place a school bus retrofit program or an air quality action day program, while EPA will supply technical advice, outreach information, and other support. While federal rules are expected to ensure that most areas meet the new standards, areas can participate in PM Advance to help them remain in attainment. For more information, please visit:: http://epa.gov/ozonepmadvance/ *Technical Guidance Manual for Sustainable Neighborhoods* This new resource from the U.S. Green Building Council will assist elected officials, local planners, and other professionals who work with

municipalities in using the LEED-ND rating system. The system is used to evaluate and amend land use regulations, plans, and policies to promote more environmentally sound and economically robust communities. For more information, please visit: http://new.usgbc.org/articles/usgbc-land-use-law-center-pace-law-school-announce-two-resources-help-local-governments-cre. *Radon Measurement/Mitigation Course, April 15-20, 2013 - Rogers, AR* This course is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (Exams - Tuesday evening and Saturday 8:30 a.m.). Course Schedule: Course days typically start at 8 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. The Measurement course is Monday-Tuesday, with the Measurement exam late afternoon or evening Tuesday. The Mitigation course begins at 8 a.m. on Wednesday and runs through the Mitigation exam Saturday morning. Workshop Contact - Bruce Snead at 785-532-4992 bsnead@ksu.edu. Please register by April 8. To register on-line, visit: https://outreach.ksu.edu/etrakWebApp/Registration.aspx?MeetingCode=605097W . To register online, you will need to set up an account with a user id (which is your e-mail address) and password. *Online Foundation Grant writing Course* This 4-month, instructor-guided online course, takes students step-by-step through writing an actual foundation grant application. Students will select a project of their choice and write a grant proposal for their nonprofit or public organization. They will be guided through the development of their proposals section-by-section, providing and receiving feedback from fellow classmates as well as the course instructor every step of the way. This class starts February 4th and runs about four months. To register, click here to go to our website or call 1-800-6666380.http://www.cdpublications.com/store/287 *Convergence Partnership Awards $1.85 Million in Grants* The Convergence Partnership, a collaboration of funders, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2012-2015 Innovation Fund grants. Thirteen foundations were awarded a total of $1.85 million for their innovative solutions to building healthy, equitable communities. The awards support new or expanded local and regional projects and initiatives that help ensure all people can live, work, and play in healthy communities. The grants provide as much as $200,000 over three years to each foundation with a required $2 match for every $1 they were awarded. To find out more about the winners, please visit www.ConvergencePartnership.org/InnovationFund. *Call for Presentations: EPA Community Involvement Training Conference* The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is soliciting presentation and training proposals for the 2013 Community Involvement Training Conference: The Next Generation of Community Involvement. This year's conference will be held late Summer 2013 in Boston, Massachusetts. This biennial conference is for EPA managers, staff, and partners who plan and implement community involvement, partnership, stewardship, outreach, and education programs. Presentation and training proposals are due by February 22, 2013. For more information, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/ciconference/. *Seeking Nominations for Members to EPA's National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC)* The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment to its National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC). The NEJAC is a multi-stakeholder federal advisory committee that provides independent advice and recommendations to the EPA Administrator about cross-cutting issues related to environmental justice. This notice solicits nominations to fill at least six (6) new vacancies. Nominations can be submitted in electronic format (preferred) following the template available at http://epa.gov/environmentaljustice/nejac/index.html#membership. In order to fill anticipated vacancies by June 2013, nominations should be received by February 20, 2012. For additional details regarding the nomination process and to learn more about NEJAC, please visit http://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/nejac/index.html#membership.

*ENERGY STAR Hurricane Resources Page* In response to Hurricane Sandy, ENERGY STAR has launched a new hurricane resources page to build sustainability with ENERGY STAR & WaterSense. To view the site, please visit: www.energystar.gov/hurricane. USDA Highlights 2012 Investments to Build Stronger Rural Communities Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently issued a report highlighting USDA Rural Development's fiscal year (FY) 2012 investments in job creation, businesses, infrastructure and housing for Americans living in rural communities across the nation. "President Obama's plan for rural America has brought about historic investment in rural communities that have made them stronger," Vilsack said. "Thanks to our loan, grant and technical assistance programs, USDA Rural Development is helping residents and rural enterprises thrive, and we are laying a strong foundation for rural America's future." With an active portfolio of more than $176 billion in loans and loan guarantees, Rural Development has provided affordable housing, improved utility infrastructure, and helped businesses and cooperatives create jobs, build rural economies and increase the quality of life in rural areas. For a full copy of the 2012 Progress Report, go to (http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/SupportDocuments/RD2012ProgressReport.pdf.) For more information, please visit: http://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDAOC-65f299. Pharmaceuticals in the Environment 2013 National Take Back Day: April 27, 2013 The DEA is planning the next National Take-Back Day on April 27, 2013. The take back day will be on the last Saturday of April from (10:00AM - 2:00PM). For more information please check the website: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html. EPA Finalizes Clean Air Standards for Industrial Boilers, Incinerators and Cement Kilns/Updated Rules Provide Extensive Public Health Protections, Cut Costs of Compliance The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized changes to Clean Air Act standards for boilers and certain incinerators that will achieve extensive public health protections by slashing toxic air pollution, including mercury and particle pollution, while at the same addressing feedback provided by industry and labor groups, increasing the rule's flexibility and dramatically reducing costs. As a result, 99 percent of the approximately 1.5 million boilers in the U.S. are not covered or can meet the new standards by conducting periodic maintenance or regular tune-ups. The final adjustments to the standards are based on an extensive analysis of data and input from states, environmental groups, industry, lawmakers and the public. As a result of information gathered through this review, including significant dialogue and meetings with public health groups, industry, and the public, the final rule dramatically cuts the cost of implementation by individual boilers that EPA proposed in 2010. At the same time, these rules will continue to deliver significant public health benefits. EPA estimates that for every dollar spent to reduce these pollutants, the public will see $13 to $29 in health benefits, including fewer instances of asthma, heart attacks, as well as premature deaths. For more information, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/airquality/cement. For more detailed information on the final standards for boilers and incinerators, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/airquality/combustion. For more on the Non-Hazardous Secondary Materials Rule, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/osw/nonhaz/define/. Energy Department Awards $10 Million to Develop Advanced Biofuels and Bio-based Products As part of the Obama Administration's all-of-the-above strategy to develop every available source of American energy, the U.S. Department of Energy today announced more than $10 million to five projects in California, Washington, Maryland, and Texas that will develop new technologies to convert biomass into advanced biofuels and bioproducts like plastics and chemical intermediates. For more information, please visit: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=822. TIGER Project Video Highlighting Porous Asphalt in Kansas Citys Green Impact Zone Below is a link to a newly released KC TIGER video highlighting the pervious concrete and porous asphalt installations in the Green Impact

Zone. At this link, you can also view other videos about the TIGER projects. TIGER stands for Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery. In 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the Recovery Act) provided $50 million in TIGER funds to the Kansas City metropolitan area for transit projects across the region and infrastructure work in the Green Impact Zone. TIGER Video 7: http://www.marc.org/TIGER/video.asp. New Guide to Evaluate Impacts of State and Local Energy Efficiency Programs The State and Local Energy Efficiency Action Network (SEE Action), an effort facilitated by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has released a new guide to evaluating the impact of energy efficiency programs at the state and local levels. This guide updates the 2007 National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency Model Energy Efficiency Impact Evaluation Guide. The new Energy Efficiency Program Impact Evaluation Guide covers key issues, practices, and steps for calculating energy savings, avoided emissions, and other non-energy impacts of efficiency programs. The primary audiences for this guide are state regulators, public and private energy efficiency portfolio administrators, program implementers, and evaluators looking for guidance on: -Planning evaluation efforts, and approaches for determining and documenting program impacts -Improving the efficacy of energy efficiency portfolios -Comparing demand- and supply-side resources. Download the guide (PDF, 180 pp, 2.8MB). For more information on SEE Actions Evaluation, Measurement, and Verification working group, visit the http://www1.eere.energy.gov/seeaction/evaluation.html. Pathways to Urban Sustainability: Research and Development on Urban Systems More than half of the world's people now live in cities. In the United States, the figure is 80 percent. It is worthwhile to consider how this trend of increased urbanization, if inevitable, could be made more sustainable. One fundamental shortcoming of urban research and programs is that they sometimes fail to recognize urban areas as systems. Current institutions and actors are not accustomed to exploring humanenvironment interactions, particularly at an urban-scale. The fact is that these issues involve complex interactions, many of which are not yet fully understood. Thus a key challenge for the 21st century is this: How can we develop sustainable urban systems that provide healthy, safe and affordable environments for the growing number of Americans living in cities and their surrounding metropolitan areas? To address this question, the National Research Council organized a workshop exploring the landscape of urban sustainability research programs in the United States. The workshop, summarized in this volume, was designed to allow participants to share information about the activities and planning efforts of federal agencies, along with related initiatives by universities, the private sector, nongovernmental groups, state and local agencies, and international organizations. Participants were encouraged to explore how urban sustainability can move beyond analyses devoted to single disciplines and sectors to systems-level thinking and effective interagency cooperation. To do this, participants examined areas of potential coordination among different R&D programs, with special consideration given to how the efforts of federal agencies can best complement and leverage the efforts of other key stakeholders. Pathways to Urban Sustainability offers a broad contextual summary of workshop presentations and discussions for distribution to federal agencies, regional organizations, academic institutions, think tanks and other groups engaged in urban research. For more information, please visit: http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12969#description. Largest Global Companies Committing to Renewable Energy and GHG Reduction A new report issued by Calvert Investments, Ceres and the World Wildlife Fund shows that most of the world's largest companies are instituting renewable energy or greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets. According to the report, 96 of the 173 companies in the Fortune 100 and Global 100 have set greenhouse gas reduction goals. Additionally, 23 of those companies have also set specific goals for renewable energy use. The report also shows that many companies are shifting away from short-term renewable energy certificate purchases toward long-term strategies using renewable power purchase agreements and investment in on-site renewable generation to fulfill GHG and renewable energy targets. For more information, please visit: http://apps3.eere.energy.gov/greenpower/news/news_template.shtml?id=1789.

Bioneers Define Resilience at Madison, Wis. Conference By most definitions, sustainability refers to a community or practice that is stable enough to continue, thus assuring its environmental, economic, and social elements will be available for future generations. Lately another term is being applied by social and scientific innovators who are examining what allows a community to stand up under pressures that might otherwise destroy it. Resilience is the word that captures the ability of a community to respond dynamically and constructively to disruption so that core functions are maintained, said Grant Albert at the recent Badger Bioneers Conference in Madison, Wis., a city working toward resilience on many fronts. The community, the environment, and the personal were all framed through a resilience lens at the conference. For more information, please visit: http://scitynetwork.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=75610d665a8ff31dbc072badb&id=c58c45f112&e=2188203d11. Congress Extends Wind Energy Tax Credits for Projects that Start in 2013 Congress has included the long-sought extension of wind energy tax credits in final passage of a bill to avert the "fiscal cliff" that now moves to President Obama for his expected signature. America's 75,000 workers in wind energy are celebrating over the continuation of policies expected to save up to 37,000 jobs and create far more over time, and to revive business at nearly 500 manufacturing facilities across the country. The extension of the wind energy Production Tax Credit (PTC), and Investment Tax Credits for community and offshore projects, will allow continued growth of the energy source that installed the most new electrical generating capacity in America last year, with factories or wind farms in all 50 states, according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). For more information, please visit: http://www.sustainablecitynetwork.com/topic_channels/energy/article_98c62f78-551f-11e2-83480019bb30f31a.html?utm_source=SCN+InBox+e-Newsletter&utm_campaign=78a9a2b01d-Newsletter_1-2-2013_Admin&utm_medium=email. Compliance/Prevention Underground Storage Tank Program and the Cleanup of Leaking Underground Storage Tank Program EPAs Office of Underground Storage Tanks (OUST) is soliciting proposals to foster interaction, information sharing, and coordination among federal, state, and tribal programs responsible for the detection, prevention, and cleaning up of releases from federally-regulated USTs. EPA anticipates awarding two cooperative agreements from this competitive announcement. One cooperative agreement will support states and tribal UST release prevention programs and the other will support states and tribal leaking underground storage tank (LUST) cleanup programs. There are separate evaluation criteria for each agreement in Section 5. Deadline: February 4, 2013. For more information, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/oswer/docs/grants/epa-oswer-oust-13-01.pdf. Federal Tax Deduction Increased for Mass Transit Commuters Tax incentives have been boosted in 2013 for mass transit commuters. Those traveling by mass transit can now claim monthly tax deductions equal to the $240 a month that car commuters have traditionally claimed to offset parking costs. The equalized provision is expected to provide up to $190 million a year in tax incentives for transit riders. For more information, please visit: http://dc.streetsblog.org/2013/01/02/transit-tax-benefit-equalized-with-parking-benefit-in-fiscal-cliff-deal/. Smart Growth Benefits 'Winter Cities' Big snowfalls and frigid temperatures illustrate how vulnerable car-dependent cities and suburbs can be when faced with disruptive winter weather patterns. A recent article in The Huffington Post discussed how walkable, transit-friendly cities tend to be more resilient to winter weather, with locations closer together and more options for getting around. For more information, please visit: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/brent-toderian/walkable-winter-cities-vancouver_b_2361419.html. Renewable Energy Tax Credits Extended The Production Tax Credit (PTC) and the investment tax credits will be extended through the end of the year under the American Taxpayer

Relief Act of 2012, which was passed by Congress on January 1, 2013, and signed into law on January 2 by President Obama. The extension of the PTC, included in the bill to avert the so-called "fiscal cliff," would apply to all U.S. wind projects that start construction in 2013. In addition to the PTC, the law also covers investment tax credits for community and offshore wind projects. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) said the incentives will allow continued growth for wind energy. The law also includes geothermal, biomass, and hydropower tax credits as well as a range of other energy efficiency and renewable energy credits. For example, the law extends the biodiesel tax incentive for 2012 and 2013, which expired on December 31, 2011. Also, the measure provides one-year tax credits for energy-efficient additions such as exterior windows, doors, and skylights which are eligible for the non-business energy property tax credit; alternative-fuelvehicle refueling stations; a $2,500 tax credit for two-wheeled or three-wheeled plug-in electric vehicles; and construction of energy-efficient new homes and the purchase of energy-efficient appliances. For more information, please visit: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgibin/query/z?c112:H.R.8. Energy Department Launches Web Tool to Explore Pathways to Clean Energy Economy The U.S. Department of Energy today announced a new interactive online tool to help researchers, educators, and students explore future U.S. energy-use scenarios. The interactive Buildings, Industry, Transportation, and Electricity Scenarios (BITES) tool allows users to adjust inputs, such as electricity generation and transportation fuel use, to compare outcomes and impacts on carbon dioxide emissions and the U.S. energy mix. For more information, please visit: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=825. Call for Papers for Summer Transportation/Land Use Planning and Air Quality Conference The Transportation Research Board, the Federal Highways Administration and other co-sponsors are accepting papers for the 2013 Transportation/ Land Use Planning and Air Quality Conference, "Developing Healthy and Livable Communities, to be held in Charlotte, North Carolina, this summer. Draft papers or abstracts must be submitted electronically no later than Friday, February 8th, 2013. For more information, please visit: https://sites.google.com/site/trbcommitteeadd50/Welcome/discussionsthreads/2013transportationlanduseplanningandairqualityconference. HUDs Green Academy HUDs Green Academy is offering green building training to HUD grantees and other affordable housing organizations receiving HUD assistance. Sessions in this pilot initiative will be held in various locations of the country, in January and February. If sessions are filled, individuals can be placed on waiting list. For more information or to register, visit www.sustainable-performance.org/HUDGreenAcad. New Report: Smart Growth and Economic Success Smart Growth and Economic Success is a new report from EPA which informs developers, businesses, investors, local government officials, and others about the economic advantages of compact and walkable community development that offers a range of choices in land uses, building types, transportation, homes, workplace locations, and stores. For more information on the report, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/livability/economic_success.htm. Citizens' Institute on Rural Design Issues Request for Proposals (RFP) for Rural Communities Facing Design Challenges The Citizens' Institute on Rural Design (CIRD) is issuing a request for proposals to rural communities facing design challenges to host local workshops in 2013. Successful applicants will receive a $7,000 grant and in-kind design expertise and technical assistance valued at $35,000. The Request for Proposals is on the new CIRD website: www.rural-design.org. The deadline for submitting a proposal is Tuesday March 5, 2013 at 5:00 pm EST. CIRD (formerly known as "Your Town") works to help rural communities with populations of 50,000 or fewer enhance their quality of life and economic vitality through facilitated design workshops. The workshops will be augmented with conference calls and webinar presentations led by experts who will cover topics related to rural design. The calls will also be open to the general public through

CommunityMatters. The new website at www.rural-design.org is a portal for resources on rural design gathered from diverse organizations across the country. It will be a place for interested citizens to connect with one another and get information about improving design in their own communities. Sign up for information calls, find the RFP and application guidelines at www.rural-design.org/apply. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Public Housing Attributed to Lower Asthma Rates in Boston Boston health officials say new city data indicate that asthma incidences have dropped nearly by half since 2005. This is attributed to Boston Housing Authority (BHA) and Boston Public Health Commission implementation of an integrated pest management (IPM) program in lowincome housing to reduce the number of cockroaches and rodents, while reducing the use of pesticides, which, along with cockroach and rodent droppings, can aggravate asthma symptoms. The data, covering 2006 through 2010, show the rate of adults who reported having asthma symptoms in the authoritys units dropped from 23.6 percent in 2006 to 13 percent in 2010, the latest year available. At the same time, asthma rates in other low-income housing in Boston, not run by BHA, remained relatively unchanged. Public health analysts studied data from a biennial telephone survey of Boston adults between 2006 and 2010. There are alternatives to pesticides for managing insects, rodents and weeds effectively without exposing your family to harmful toxic chemicals, especially incorporating the principles of IPM into your home. Beyond Pesticides The Safer Choice brochure focuses on what you can do to manage your home, school and community without poisoning your children, families, pets, and the environment. Beyond Pesticides is a strong advocate for defined structural IPM practices and is working to champion the use of these methods particularly in schools and hospitals, where vulnerable populations are at elevated risk from pesticide exposure. Beyond Pesticides Healthy Schools Project aims to minimize and eliminate the risks posed by pesticides through the adoption of IPM policies and programs at the local, state, and federal level, thereby fostering a healthier learning environment. Central to this effort are activities aimed at public education on pesticide hazards and the efficacy of alternatives, and the continued development of model communities that serve as examples. For more information on structural IPM, please visit Beyond Pesticides What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)? page at: http://www.beyondpesticides.org/infoservices/pcos/IPM.php. 2013 CNU Charter AwardsCall for Entries The Congress of the New Urbanism Charter Awards honors a select number of winners and honorable mentions - including one grand professional prize and one grand academic prize for students. Winning projects are recognized for their excellence in fulfilling the principles of walkable, sustainable places from the scale of the region down to the block and building. Due date for entries: January 30, 2013. For more information, please visit: http://www.cnu.org/cnu-news/2012/11/2013-cnu-charter-awards. 2013 American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA) Recycling Awards, Apply by February 15th Check out this opportunity for schools, communities and businesses from the American Forest and Paper Association and feel free to forward to your stakeholders. They are open for entries from Dec. 3-Feb.15. AF&PA set an ambitious goal to recover more than 70 percent of the paper used in the U.S. by the year 2020. Recycling Awards are given to organizations with outstanding examples of the innovation and effort needed to achieve the goal. Winners receive cash prizes, in addition to local and national recognition. For award criteria, details and deadlines, please visit them online at www.paperrecycles.org. USDA Announces Investments in Bioenergy Research and Development to Spur New Markets, Innovation, and Unlimited Opportunity in Rural America Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack visited a state-of-the-art bioindustrial facility at Renmatix today, where he announced $25 million to fund research and development of next-generation renewable energy and high-value biobased products from a variety of biomass sources. "The advances made through this research will help to boost local economies throughout rural America, creating and sustaining good-paying jobs, while moving our nation toward a clean energy economy," said Vilsack. The projects announced today are funded by USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) through the Biomass Research and Development Initiative, established in the 2008 Farm Bill.

The funded research will help increase the availability of alternative renewable fuels and biobased products to diversify the nation's energy resources. The Department of Energy will make additional awards through this program. Each award was made through a competitive selection process. The following projects have been selected for awards: -Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., $5,078,932. The goal of this project is to make the oilseed crop camelina a cost-effective biofuel and bioproduct feedstock. -Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio, $6,510,183. This project will result in an anaerobic digestion system for the production of liquid transportation fuels and electricity from animal manure, agricultural residues, woody biomass and energy crops. -Ceramatec, Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah, $6,599,304. This project will convert lignocellulosic biomass to infrastructure-compatible renewable diesel, biolubricants, animal feed and biopower. -USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center, Wyndmoor, Pa., $6,865,942. ARS scientists will develop an onthe-farm distributed technology for converting forest residues, horse manure, switchgrass and other perennial grasses into biofuels and highvalue specialty chemicals. USDA is working to develop the biofuels industry in every region of the country. In addition to today's awards, USDA has previously announced major support for public and private research in renewable energy and products in every major American region, aimed at developing renewable energy markets, generating rural jobs, and decreasing America's dependence on foreign oil. By partnering with industry, the research is enabling private-sector partners to produce advanced ready-to-use liquid transportation and aviation biofuels. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. Energy Department Invests $9 Million for Home Energy-Saving Products The Energy Department recently announced a $9 million investment in building energy technologies, including high-efficiency, highperformance windows; roofs; and heating and cooling equipment. The new investment supports six advanced manufacturing projects in California, Connecticut, Idaho, Maryland, Missouri, and Tennessee that advance whole-home energy performance. The investment includes about $6.5 million awarded to four projects to develop highly efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, and about $3 million awarded to two projects that focus on building materials. For example, St. Louis, Missouri-based Unico will receive $2 million to develop a cold-climate heat pump with a variable-speed compressor that will maintain capacity and efficiency, even at very low temperatures. The Department's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory will develop and test highly insulated, easy-to-install windows that use automated shading and can capture or repel heat, depending on the season. For more information, please visit: http://energy.gov/articles/energy-department-announces-six-projects-develop-energy-saving-windows-roofs-and-heating. This newsletter is being provided by EPA Region 7 for informational purposes only. This newsletter contains links to information, agencies, sites, and organizations outside of the EPA website. EPA is not responsible for third party links. EPA does not endorse third party organizations or agencies.