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The Natural Resources Program Area includes the latest guidance, examples, and information resources to aid Federal facilities in managing endangered or threatened species, wetlands, erosion control, habitat development, native landscaping, and wildlife in general.
Executive Order 13423 focuses on natural resources management specifically by mandating water conservation (see Water Conservation section under Lessons Learned.). In Section 2, paragraph c, agencies are required, beginning in FY 2008, to reduce water consumption intensity, relative to the baseline of the agency's water consumption in fiscal year 2007, through life-cycle cost-effective measures by 2 percent annually through the end of fiscal year 2015 or 16 percent by the end of fiscal year 2015. (NOTE: By September 30, 2007, DOE, in coordination with EPA, shall issue guidance with respect to a 2007 baseline for potable, landscape, and other water consumption intensity and meeting the water conservation goal of Section 2© of the E.O.)
In order to meet these water conservation goals, the Instructions for Implementing EO 13423 urge:
- the use of metering devices that measure consumption of potable water in Federal buildings and other facilities and grounds. Data collected should be incorporated into Federal tracking systems and be made available to Federal facility managers (Section VI(a)(3)). Agencies should consider inclusion of metering requirements in all Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) and Utility Energy Service Contracts (UESCs), as appropriate.
- conducting water audits of at least 10 percent of facility square footage annually and conducting new audits at least every 10 years, thereafter. This audit requirement can be met by audits done in conjunction with ESPC or UESC projects (Section VI(a)(4)).
- Where applicable, agencies should purchase WaterSense (SM) labeled products and choose irrigation contractors who are certified through a WaterSense labeled program (Section VI(a)(8)).
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Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management
24 January 2007
Executive Order 13423 "Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management", signed by President Bush on January 24, 2007. The order sets goals in the areas of energy efficiency, acquisition, renewable energy, toxics reductions, recycling, renewable energy, sustainable buildings, electronics stewardship, fleets, and water conservation. In addition the order requires more widespread use of Environmental Management Systems as the framework in which to manage and continually improve these sustainable practices.
With this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed in January 2006, signatory agencies commit to federal leadership in the design, construction, and operation of High-Performance and Sustainable Buildings. A major element of this strategy is the implementation of common strategies for planning, acquiring, siting, designing, building, operating, and maintaining High Performance and Sustainable Buildings. Included in the MOU are the 5 Guiding Principles for Federal Leadership in High Performance and Sustainable Buildings which includes more detailed guidance on the parameters for and the implementation of principles for optimizing energy performance, conserving water, improved indoor environmental quality, integrated design, and reduction of the impact of materials.
In accordance with Section 4(b) of Executive Order 13423, "Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management", implementing instructions have been issued to Federal agencies to provide detail and direction to agencies as the work to fulfill the goals and requirement of the Executive Order. Section 8 of these instructions are specific to pollution prevention. These instructions are dated March 29, 2007.
This memorandum, jointly issued by OMB and CEQ, encourages all agencies to adopt and implement EMS, including the establishment of a firm date for final completion of the efforts. Additionally, agencies are encouraged to work with the January 2006 scorecard initiative launched by OMB. The January 11, 2006 scorecards address Environmental Stewardship, Transportation Management, and Energy Management.
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This act (16 USC 1451-1464, last amended in November 1990), is the Federal legislation that governs the preservation and management of coastal waters in the nation.
Protection and Enhancement of Environmental Quality
5 Mar 1970 and amended by EO 11990
Under this EO, the Federal Government must provide leadership in protecting and enhancing the quality of the nation’s environment to sustain and enrich human life. Federal agencies must initiate measures needed to direct their policies, plans and programs so as to meet national environmental goals.
Use of Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) on The Public Lands
24 May 1977
This EO specifies that ORVs may not be used without special use and location designation.
Trails for America in the 21st Century
18 January 2001
This EO mandates that Federal agencies will, to the extent permitted by law and where practicable--and in cooperation with Tribes, States, local governments, and interested citizen groups--protect, connect, promote, and assist trails of all types throughout the United States.
Facilitation of Cooperative Conservation
26 Aug 2004
This EO requires that the Secretaries of the Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, and Defense and the Administrator of the EPA shall:
1. carry out the programs, projects, and activities of the agency that they respectively head that implement laws relating to the environment and natural resources in a manner that:
- facilitates cooperative conservation;
- takes appropriate account of and respects the interests of persons with ownership or other legally recognized interests in land and other natural resources;
- properly accommodates local participation in Federal decisionmaking; and
- provides that the programs, projects, and activities are consistent with protecting public health and safety;
2. report annually to the Chairman of the CEQ on actions taken to implement this order; and
3. provide funding to the Office of the Environmental Quality Mgmt Fund for a Conference.
This document, published August 9, 1995 in the Federal Register, announces guidance developed by the interagency workgroup under the direction of the Office Federal Environmental Executive (OFEE) to assist federal agencies in the implementation of environmentally and economically beneficial landscape practices.
In 2006 EPA signed a MOU with the Edison Electric Institute and five federal agencies to establish sound Integrated Vegetation Management practices in order to reduce adverse impacts to the environment and the public while ensuring reliable electrical service. The federal agencies involved in the MOU include the Forest Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Park Service of the Department of the Interior. The MOU will support these federal agencies by providing practical, sustainable, and cost-effective policies, procedures, and practices that will reduce risks to the environment and the public, while ensuring safe, reliable, and uninterrupted electrical services to customers.
This act (16 USC 670a-670f, last amended in November 1997) authorizes the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program to provide for the conservation and rehabilitation of natural resources on military installations.
This act, Public Law 93-629 (7 USC 2814), established a Federal program to control the spread of noxious weeds.
This act (16 USC 1133), originally dated September 3, 1964, mandates that each agency administering any area designated as wilderness is responsible for preserving the wilderness character of the area. When the agency uses the area for another purpose, it will do so in a manner that preserves the wilderness character.
This act (16 USC 1271-1287, last amended in May 1991) outlines the policy of the United States that certain selected rivers of the nation which, with their immediate environments, possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar values, must be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments must be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.
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The purpose of this act (16 USC 1531-1547, et al., last amended in October 1988), is to provide a means whereby the ecosystems upon which endangered species and threatened species depend may be conserved, to provide a program for the conservation of such endangered species and threatened species, and to take such steps as may be appropriate to achieve the purposes of the treaties and conventions for protection of endangered species (16 USC 1531(b)). Under ESA, the policy of Congress is that all Federal departments and agencies must seek to conserve endangered species and threatened species and must use their authorities in furtherance of the purposes of this act. Further, Federal agencies must cooperate with state and local agencies to resolve water resource issues in concert with conservation of endangered species (16 USC 1531(c)).
Recreational Fisheries
7 June 1995
This EO mandates that Federal agencies, to the extent permitted by law and where practicable, improve the quality, function, and sustainable productivity and distribution of U.S. aquatic resources for increased recreational fishing opportunities. It also established the National Recreational Fisheries Coordination Council.
Invasive Species
3 February 1999
This EO addresses the prevention of the introduction of invasive species and provides for their control and minimization of the economic, ecological, and human health impacts the invasive species causes. The EO establishes the Invasive Species Council, which is responsible for the preparation and issuance of the National Invasive Species Management Plan, which details and recommends performance-oriented goals and objectives and specific measures of success for Federal Agencies
Marine Protected Areas
26 May 2000
This EO mandates strengthening the management, protection, and conservation of existing marine protected areas (MPA) and establishment of new or expanded MPAs; the development of a scientifically based, comprehensive national system of MPAs representing diverse U.S. marine ecosystems and the Nation’s natural and cultural resources; and the avoiding causing harm to MPAs through federally conducted, approved, or funded activities.
Responsibilities of Federal Agencies To Protect Migratory Birds
10 January 2001
This EO directs executive departments and agencies to take certain actions to further implement the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The EO requires that each Federal agency taking actions that have, or are likely to have, a measurable negative effect on migratory bird populations is directed to develop and implement, within 2yr, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) that shall promote the conservation of migratory bird populations. Under this EO, the SOI will establish the interagency Council for the Conservation of Migratory Birds (Council) to oversee the implementation of the EO.
This act (16 U.S.C. 2901-2911) encourages Federal departments and agencies to utilize their statutory and administrative authority to the maximum extent possible to conserve and protect non-game fish and wildlife and their habitats.
This act (16 USC 666c, last amended in July 1965), is the Federal legislation that coordinates programs and activities regarding the conservation and rehabilitation of fish and wildlife in the United States.
Developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), the guidance describes a crediting framework for Federal agencies in carrying out recovery measures for threatened and endangered species. Under the guidance, Federal agencies may show how adverse effects of agency activities to a listed species are offset by beneficial effects of actions taken elsewhere for that species. The combined effects of the adverse and beneficial actions must provide a net benefit to the recovery of the species.
This act, (16 USC 1362 - 1407) states policy to prevent the extinction or depletion of marine mammals as a result of man’s activities. It further encourages the development of international arrangements for research on and conservation of all marine mammals.
This act (16 USC 1401 - 1444) declares that the United States will strictly limit all dumping into the ocean of any material which would adversely affect human health, welfare, or amenities, or the marine environment, ecological systems, or economic potentialities.
This act (16 USC 703-711, last amended in December 1989), is a Federal law that enforces international conventions for the protection of migratory birds and game animals to which the United States is a party.
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This Convention was created on 2 February 1971, in Ramsar, Iran amended by Paris Protocol of 3 December 1982, and entered into force for the United States on 18 December 1986. Each country must promote the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl by establishing nature reserves on wetlands and provide adequately for their wardening (Article 4, para 1).
The Corps of Engineer's Regulatory Guidance Letter 3 August 2006, Minimum Monitoring Requirements for Compensatory Mitigation Projects Involving the Creation, Restoration, and/or Enhancement of Aquatic Resources outlines minimum monitoring requirements to ensure projects designed to replace lost wetlands are meeting their goals. The guidance outlines standardized procedures, time frames, and standards that managers need to follow in submitting annual monitoring reports for projects designed to mitigate wetlands lost to dredging and filling activities permitted under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
The current Federal delineation manual, dated January 1987, used in the Clean Water Act Section 404 regulatory program for the identification and delineation of wetlands. Except where noted in the manual, the approach requires positive evidence of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology for a determination that an area is a wetland.
Protection of Wetlands
24 May 1977 and amended by EO 12608
Under this EO each Federal agency must provide leadership and take action to minimize the destruction, loss or degradation of wetlands, and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands. Each agency, to the extent permitted by law, must avoid undertaking or providing assistance for new construction located in wetlands unless the head of the agency finds: there is no practical alternative to such construction; the proposed action includes all practical measures to minimize harm to wetlands that may result from such use. In making this finding the head of the agency may take into account economic, environmental and other pertinent factors (Section 2(a)). Each agency must also provide opportunity for early public review of any plans or proposals for new construction in wetlands (Section 2(b)).
Originally this Act authorized the Surgeon General of the Public Health Service, in cooperation with other Federal, state and local entities, to prepare comprehensive programs for eliminating or reducing the pollution of interstate waters and tributaries and improving the sanitary condition of surface and underground waters. The original statute also authorized the Federal Works Administrator to assist states, municipalities, and interstate agencies in constructing treatment plants to prevent discharges of inadequately treated sewage and other wastes into interstate waters or tributaries. Since 1948, the original statute has been amended extensively either to authorize additional water quality programs, standards and procedures to govern allowable discharges, funding for construction grants or general program funding. Amendments in other years provided for continued authority to conduct program activities or administrative changes to related activities.
Updates and background information regarding the scope of term "Waters of the United States" protected under the CWA.
This act (16 .SC 4401-4413), dated 13 December 1989, was promulgated to conserve North American wetland ecosystems and waterfowl and the other migratory birds and fish and wildlife that depend upon such habitat. The act encourages partnership among public agencies and other interested to: protect, enhance, restore, and manage an appropriate distribution and diversity of wetland ecosystems and other habitats for migratory birds and other fish and wildlife in North America; maintain current or improved distribution of migratory bird populations; and sustain an abundance of waterfowl and other migratory birds consistent with the goals of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and the international obligations contained in the migratory bird treaties and conventions and other agreements with Canada, Mexico, and other countries.
Approved JDs and preliminary JDs are tools used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to help implement Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) and Sections 9 and 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (RHA). This RGL explains the differences between these two types of JDs and provides guidance on when an approved JD is required and when a landowner, permit applicant, or other "affected party"1 can decline to request and obtain an approved JD and elect to use a preliminary JD instead.
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A bi-monthly newsletter developed by NOAA’s Coastal Services Center. Each issue focuses on a tool, information resource, or methodology of interest to the nation's coastal resource managers.
Sponsored b NOAA’s Coastal Services Center. This directory provides access to coastal-related databases and libraries throughout the nation.
Sponsored by NOAA, this bimonthly magazine is a trade publication for the nation's coastal resource managers. Past issues discuss various coastal zone initiatives and projects.
Through this Bulletin, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service disseminates information on rulemakings, recovery plans and activities, conservation partnerships, research developments, and a variety of other issues. It is distributed on-line four times per year.
This document is a picture of the extent of beach monitoring in U.S. coastal and Great Lake waters. The List provides information to the public about beaches in their state. It will also help EPA determine how to better implement the BEACH Act. EPA compiled this list using information submitted by states and territories to EPA as of January 31, 2008.
Issued 6 times per year, the intent of the newsletter is to provide accurate, timely, and in-depth coverage of wetland regulation, policy, science, and management.
A resource directory for local governments to use in developing and implementing climate change initiatives. This guide includes information on, among many other items, how the U.S. EPA can help with:
- greening transportation;
- land-use decisions and building construction requirements;
- improving recycling;
- conserving water; and
- using more efficient and renewable energy
The Society for Ecological Restoration International provides RESTORE as a service to the restoration community. Subscription is open to anyone who is interested in sharing and/or learning about opportunities or information relevant to ecological restoration (conferences, workshops, jobs, informal requests, etc.). Listed events and announcements are not necessarily endorsed by SER. RESTORE is sent out as often as newsworthy events are submitted.
A Federal Highway Administration monthly newsletter highlighting current environmental streamlining practices from around the country.
The newsletter is mailed out twice a year, generally in January and July. Provides information on wetlands management in Texas as well as listing classes and event of possible interest.
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In 1996 the Coastal America Partnership established a network of Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers (CELCs). The network combines the resources of federal agencies with marine educational centers. Most Learning Centers are aquaria, museums, and research centers. The goal of each CELC is to educate and involve the public in protecting our nation's coastal and ocean ecosystems.
Items in this collection were originally submitted to the NOAA Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM) by state coastal zone management programs in accordance with the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. OCRM transferred the collection to the NOAA Coastal Services Center Library in 1996. New items that are produced and submitted to OCRM are sent to the library after OCRM approval for the CZIC Collection. The collection provides data and information crucial to the understanding of U.S. coastal management and NOAA's mission to sustain healthy coasts.
This site provides links to frequently requested topics and access to on-line library card catalogs. When a search is submitted, the system queries the selected remote catalogs and returns a list of titles from each library. The subsequent selection of a title will return the full card-catalog entry for that title including information about how to obtain the document.
Operated by the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE), the library includes resources on water conservation and efficiency.
WaterWiser provides news, information, research results, discussion forums, references, calendar of events, searchable information databases, and other resources primarily targeted to water conservation professionals, but freely accessible to others in the water industry and the general public. WaterWiser is produced and maintained by the members of the Water Conservation Division of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and by the AWWA web team.
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The Alliance is a stakeholder-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water. The Alliance creates and maintains a web-based water conservation clearinghouse that offers product information, best practices specifications, research reports, training materials, program descriptions, codes and standards, program evaluation tools, drought planning and response, and professional expertise.
The vision of American Forests is to have healthy forest ecosystems for every community. Their strategy for achieving the mission is to provide action opportunities to targeted audiences to enable them to improve their environment with trees. They do this by using the best science to identify conservation issues, then develop and market practical solutions that individuals and groups can apply. American Forests' targeted audiences are individuals, community groups, government at all levels, educators, and businesses.
ARCSA promotes rainwater catchment systems in the United States through educational opportunities and the exchange of information at their Web site and through their workshops. The membership consists of professionals working in city, state, and federal government, academia, manufacturers and suppliers of rainwater harvesting equipment, consultants, and other interested individuals.
AWWA is an international nonprofit scientific and educational society dedicated to the improvement of drinking water quality and supply. Founded in 1881, AWWA is the largest organization of water supply professionals in the world. Its more than 57,000 members represent the full spectrum of the drinking water community: treatment plant operators and managers, scientists, environmentalists, manufacturers, academicians, regulators, and others who hold genuine interest in water supply and public health. Membership includes more than 4,700 utilities that supply water to roughly 180 million people in North America.
This is a partnership between EPA and the National Estuary Programs (NEPs) to address climate change in coastal areas. This effort brings together EPA's Oceans and Coastal Protection Division and Climate Change Division to build additional capacity in the NEPs and other coastal communities as they prepare to adapt to the effects of climate change. Other EPA offices, such as the Global Change Research Program, are supporting this effort as well. The purpose of Climate Ready Estuaries is to assist NEPs and coastal communities in becoming "climate ready" by providing tools and assistance to assess climate change vulnerability and plan for adaptation.
This is a partnership with a goal of better management of coastal resources, with the participating agencies pledging to coordinate their statutory responsibilities and combine their resources and expertise. The Coastal America partnership is formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding signed by 13 sub-cabinet level agency representatives of the federal government. They committed their agencies to work together and integrate their efforts with state, local and non-governmental activities.
When the United National Forum on Forests was formed in 2 002, this group was also formed to cooperate on forest issues and support the work of the UNFF. This is an interagency partnership to support the work of the UNFF and enhance cooperation and coordination on forest issues for the promotion of sustainable management of all types of forests.
The CDHC was created in 2002, in response to the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force’s (USCRTF) National Action Plan to Conserve Coral Reefs. Their vision is CDHC is involved in activitie such as: sequencing the coral genome, setting diagnostic criteria, and developing diagnostic tools. Currently over 50 partners, including federal agencies, EPA, DOI, NOAA along with academia, non-profit and industry, contribute their time and expertise to the CDHC, while organizational infrastructure is supported by the Congressionally funded Coral Conservation Program.
Ducks Unlimited conserves, restores, and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America's waterfowl.
Collection of fact sheets, regulatory guidance, grant availability, and permitting information concerning wetlands
An independent non-profit organization formed in 1998 to foster recognition and rewards in the marketplace for goods and service providers who practice Integrated Pest Management, or IPM.
The Interagency Marine Debris Coordinating Committee (IMDCC) is an interagency body responsible for developing and recommending comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approaches to reduce the sources and impacts of marine debris to the nation's marine environment, natural resources, public safety, and economy. The IMDCC ensures the coordination of Federal agency marine debris activities both nationally and internationally, as well as recommends research priorities, monitoring techniques, educational programs, and regulatory action.
Founded in 1972, IECA is a non-profit organization that serves as the premier global resource for the prevention and control of erosion.
This organization is the result of an initiative launched in June 1994 among non-European temperate and boreal countries to develop and implement internationally agreed criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management. The 12 member countries are: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Russian Federation, United States of America, and Uruguay The focus of the group is to advance the development and implementation of internationally agreed criteria and indicators for the conservation and sustainable management of temperate and boreal forests (outside Europe) at the national level.
Audubon's mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity.
The purpose of this organization is to help people and organizations develop and implement measures to reduce vulnerability to drought.
The NEP was authorized under the 1987 Amendments to the Clean Water Act to improve estuarine waters, habitats and living resources by working with partners and the public. Estuaries are places where rivers meet the sea. Under NEP EPA develops plans for attaining or maintaining water quality in an estuary. This includes protection of public water supplies and the protection and propagation of a balanced, indigenous population of shellfish, fish, and wildlife, and allows recreational activities, in and on water, requires that control of point and nonpoint sources of pollution to supplement existing controls of pollution.
A not-for-profit organization founded in 1948 as the National Water Well Association. Their purpose is to provide guidance to members, government representatives, and the public for sound scientific, economic, and beneficial development, protection, and management of the world's ground water resources.
Not-for-profit organization involved in the preservation of habitat, re-introduction of species, and conservation issues in general.
The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive.
The Pacific Institute is dedicated to protecting our natural world, encouraging sustainable development, and improving global security. The Pacific Institute currently has five main areas of research: Water and Sustainability, Environment and Security, Community Strategies for Sustainability and Justice, Economic Globalization and the Environment, and Global Change working on a wide variety of topics.
A consortium of ten federal government Member agencies and over 260 non-federal
Cooperators representing various disciplines within the conservation field: biologists, botanists, habitat preservationists, horticulturists, resources management consultants, soil scientists, special interest clubs, non-profit organizations, concerned citizens, nature lovers, and gardeners. PCA Members and Cooperators work collectively to solve the problems of native plant extinction and native habitat restoration, ensuring the preservation of our ecosystem. This site contains state or regionally-specific guides on native plant landscaping, grant programs, in invasive species.
The members of the Sierra Club work together to protect our communities and the planet. The Club is America's oldest, largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization.
A non-profit organization with a mission "to promote ecological restoration as a means of sustaining the diversity of life on Earth and reestablishing an ecologically healthy relationship between nature and culture." Founded in 1987, the Society now boasts members in 37 countries and all 50 US states, with 14 chapters serving regions of North America, England, Europe, Australia and India.
The Society of American Foresters (SAF) is the national scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. The mission of SAF is to advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and, to use the knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic of the profession to ensure the continued health and use of forest ecosystems and the present and future availability of forest resources to benefit society.
The Society is a non-profit organization founded in 1980 to promote wetland science and the exchange of information related to wetlands.
The SFI program promotes responsible forest management in North America, and responsible procurement globally. To do this, SFI offers certifications of forests themselves as well as certifications that track wood and fiber from the forests to the end user. Two goals of the SFI program are first, SFI program participants practice sustainable forestry on all the lands they manage and second, they influence millions of additional acres through the training of loggers and foresters in best management practices. SFI Inc. is an independent, non-profit charitable organization.
Established in 2002 to provide a forum that would address all issues related to forests in a coherent and comprehensive manner and a forum that would facilitate the exchange of experiences in the implementation of sustainable forest management practices by Governments and stakeholders. UNFF meets annually for two weeks and all Member States of the United Nations and States members of specialized agencies participate in the annual sessions.
The Task Force was established by Presidential Executive Order 13089. Their mission is to lead, coordinate, and strengthen U.S. government actions to better preserve and protect coral reef ecosystems. The Task Force is co-chaired by the Departments of Commerce and of the Interior, and includes leaders of 12 federal agencies, seven U.S. states and territories, and three freely associated states.
This is an independent global non-profit organization dedicated solely to the work of wetland conservation and sustainable management. It’s mission statement is “To sustain and restore wetlands, their resources and biodiversity for future generations through research, information exchange and conservation activities, worldwide.”
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USACE Los Angeles District was involved in the development and execution of the Ed Pastor Keno Environmental Restoration Project. The project substantially improved the environmental quality of a mudflat basin, while maintaining the original function of detaining and storing flood waters from a 17.7 square mile watershed. The project has two primary functions -- flood control and ecosystem restoration. As a flood control facility, the project controls storm water discharge from the basin during storms. During non-storm events, water flow rates and water levels are controlled by a re-circulation system that includes a pumping station, distribution piping, solenoid valves, stream course weirs, and the deep pond inlet weir. The project’s natural and constructed aesthetic features, recreational benefits, and natural habitat have dramatically enhanced an economically depressed neighborhood.
Each year the U.S. Department of Energy, in conjunction with the Federal Interagency Energy Policy Committee ("656" Committee), sponsors the Federal Energy and Water Management Awards. These awards honor individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the efficient use of energy and water resources in the federal government.
The Gulf of Mexico Program Partnership developed the Gulf Guardian awards as a way to recognize and honor the businesses, community groups, individuals, and agencies that are taking positive steps to keep the Gulf healthy, beautiful and productive. The first Gulf Guardian Award winners were recognized in 2000. Every year since, a first, second and third place award are given in seven categories: Business, Civic/Non-Profit Organization, Partnerships, Youth/Education, Individual, Government, and Bi-National.
This award is given to recognize efforts to promote the conservation of natural resources, including the identification, protection, and restoration of biological resources and habitats; the sound management and use of the land and its resources; and the promotion of the conservation ethic. Environmentally beneficial landscaping is also a factor in this award. These are annual awards celebrating the previous years' accomplishments/innovations. Nominations are typically accepted until March and the awards given in June.
The National Wetlands Awards are presented annually to individuals who have excelled in wetlands protection, restoration, and education. The program is co-sponsored by the Environmental Law Institute, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Federal Highway Administration, and NOAA Fisheries. The Environmental Law Institute coordinates the awards program, while the federal agency co-sponsors provide financial support, serve on the selection committee and participate in the ceremony.
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The purpose of this guidance is to aid in the preparation of decommissioned military and commercial vessels using best management practices so they "will be environmentally sound in their use as artificial reefs," as required under Section 3516 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (P.L. 108-136). Options for managing obsolete and decommissioned military and commercial vessels include reusing all or parts of the vessel, recycling or scrapping, creating artificial reefs, and disposing of vessels on land or at sea, according to the guidance.
CZMP is a unique federal-state partnership that provides a proven basis for protecting, restoring, and responsibly developing the nation's important and diverse coastal communities and resources. State and federal coastal zone management efforts are guided by the CZMP's Strategic Framework, which is organized around three major themes: Sustain Coastal Communities, Sustain Coastal Ecosystems, and Improve Government Efficiency. This site provides program guidance, access to information on state programs, and major initiatives.
The site asks and answers the 20 frequently asked questions about water level and coastal erosion.
An educational website to inform people on the sources, impacts, and solutions of the marine debris issue. On this site users can download informative marine debris brochures, posters, fact sheets, guidebooks, and activity books tailored to specific audiences, including beach goers, fishermen, boaters, students and educators.
This report summarizes the condition of ecological resources in the estuaries of the United States and highlights several exemplary Federal, State, Tribal, and local programs that assess coastal ecological and water quality conditions. This report rates the overall condition of U.S. coastal waters as fair to poor, varying from region to region. It represents a coordinated effort among EPA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and coastal States.
This September 2007 report is the result of an EPA-funded five year national study on marine debris which sets a nationwide scientific baseline on the problem. The study found that general-source marine debris trash that comes from both ocean- and land-based activities increased across the United States by more than 5 percent each year.
This action plan is developed jointly by White House Council on Environmental Quality, the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the governors of California, Oregon and Washington to address challenging ocean and coastal management issues along the West Coast. This website will provide updates on the progression of the plan.
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This site explains U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service guidance and regulations related to emergencies involving acts of national defense or security emergencies and the conservation of candidate, threatened and endangered species as required under the Endangered Species Act.
The purpose of the handbook is to provide information and guidance on the various consultation processes outlined in the regulations for endangered and threatened species management. Additionally, the handbook will ensure consistent implementation of consultation procedures by those biologists responsible for carrying out section 7 activities. Chapters of the handbook deal with major consultation processes, including Informal, Formal, Emergency, and Special Consultations; and Conferences.
The goal of the Endangered Species Act is the recovery of listed species to levels where protection under the Act is no longer necessary. The program uses a variety of tools and plans for species recovery. Recovery Plans are an essential part of the recovery program and plans that have been revised or finalized since 1989 are available electronically as well as species profiles.
This report presents an examination of Federally listed Threatened and Endangered (T & E) species on United States Army installations, and the results of a survey conducted to ascertain the kinds and quality of efforts being made to monitor these species in compliance with the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and AR 200-3.
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This contains a comprehensive set of criteria and indicators for use by policy-makers, forest managers, and the general public.
Developed by an inter-agency steering team, Eco-Logical encourages Federal, State, tribal, and local partners involved in infrastructure planning, design, review, and construction to use flexibility in regulatory processes. Specifically, Eco-Logical puts forth the conceptual groundwork for integrating plans across agency boundaries, and endorses ecosystem-based mitigation - an innovative method of mitigating infrastructure impacts that cannot be avoided.
The purpose of this guidance is to discuss the eligibility of Federal-aid funds for the control of noxious weeds and aquatic noxious weeds and establishment of native species provisions contained in Section 6006 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU).
Management approaches being undertaken to address: estuary nutrient overloading; estuary pathogen management; toxic chemicals in estuaries; habitat loss and degradation; alteration of natural flow; and declines in wildlife populations.
The focus of this new 300-page document is a general audience interested in integrating environmental concerns into their unpaved roads program. Specifically, the manual identifies, documents, and encourages the use of environmentally sensitive maintenance of dirt and gravel roads. The document provides insight into using natural systems and innovative technologies to reduce erosion, sediment, and dust pollution while more effectively and efficiently maintaining dirt and gravel roads and gives the users a tool box full of environmentally sensitive maintenance tools and practices. Dirt and gravel roads are increasingly being recognized as having a significant impact on water resources.
A collaborative research study between the U.S. EPA and the CDC that is investigating human health effects associated with recreational water use. This study will help us better understand the link between water pollution, swimming at the beach, and peoples' health. A main goal of the NEEAR study is to better understand how new ways of measuring water pollution can be effectively used to protect swimmers' health.
This plan is specific to each individual program and addresses all aspects of environmental protection for the estuary, including issues such as water quality, habitat, living resources, and land use. The CCMP is based on a scientific characterization of the estuary, and is developed and approved by a broad-based coalition of stakeholders. You will also find examples of active CCMPs here.
Issued by the USDA, this report addresses the state of the forests in the United States and the indicators of national progress toward the goal of sustainable forest management.
The land use and soil erosion portions of the inventory has been updated.
Productive Lands, Healthy Environment
This Synthesis and Assessment Product 4.4 (SAP 4.4) analyzes information on the state of knowledge of adaptation options for key, representative ecosystems and resources that may be sensitive to climate variability and change. The report identifies strategies to protect the environment as these changes occur.
This newly issued report (January 2008) contains 17 case studies from across North America that show the economic viability of LID practices. Using these practices in construction projects can lower costs while improving environmental results. The report highlights examples that, in most cases, reduce project costs while improving environmental performance. Total capital savings ranged from 15 to 80 percent, with a few exceptions in which LID project costs were higher than conventional stormwater management costs. As LID practices become more common, it is likely that they will become cheaper to use.
Every community should establish a tree canopy goal for their community as an important step in ensuring that their valuable green infrastructure is maintained at minimum thresholds, even as the community continues to develop. Each community must first identify what their tree canopy cover is, and then set their own goals to help meet environmental and quality of life goals, including federal and local clean air and water regulations. Once a specific goal is determined, the local government can pursue that goal using policies, procedures, and budget.
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Promotes simple ways of reducing the amount of water used for irrigation include growing xeriphytic species (plants that are adapted to dry conditions), mulching, adding water retaining organic matter to the soil, and installing windbreaks and fences to slow winds and reduce evapotranspiration.
A site promoting EPA's initiative to increase the use of water-efficient products. The site breaks these products into sub-topics such as: industry, residential, and landscaping.
This contains DOE supplemental guidance to the Instructions for Implementing Executive Order 13423 dated January 2008. This document provides clarification and guidance to achieve the water reduction goals of section 2(c) of Executive Order 13423 and the Instructions for Implementing Executive Order 13423, dated March 29, 2007. Beginning in 2008, Federal agencies must reduce water consumption intensity through life-cycle cost-effective measures, relative to the baseline of the agency's water consumption in fiscal year 2007 by 2 percent annually through the end of FY 2015 or 16 percent by the end of FY 2015.
Discussed in the fact sheets are high efficiency toilet, composting toilet, incinerating toilets, and oil recirculating toilets. Each fact sheet includes the following information: environmental, Public, and consumer benefits; a description of the technology; limitations; consumer tips; costs and references for additional information.
This comprehensive plan developed by EPA, with state and national partners to reduce runoff and increase environmental and economic benefits for communities is now available. The strategy will help reduce stormwater runoff and sewer overflows by promoting "green infrastructure" approaches, such as green roofs, trees and tree boxes, rain gardens, and porous pavements. The plan explains how states, municipalities, permitting authorities, and non-governmental organizations can use green infrastructure practices to meet water quality goals while sustaining their water infrastructure. The document outlines ways to bring green infrastructure technologies and approaches into mainstream use for runoff and sewer overflow management.
This program shows effective ways to save water inside and outside the house. Topics include efficient toilets, showerheads, faucets; leak detection, water efficient lawn care and gardening; car washing and pool operation.
EPA has established an internal goal to reduce its total water consumption by 10 percent by 2010 from its consumption levels in 2000. To help achieve this goal, EPA is assessing water use at several of its facilities and developing Water Management Plans to increase their water efficiency. The Agency has developed water management plans for 11 EPA laboratories and research centers across the country. A focal point of water management plans is Best Management Practices (BMPs) designed to consider all of the various uses of water and maximize conservation.
The latest generation of water-saving, high-efficiency toilets must use less than 1.3 gal per flush and meet performance standards for quality in order to qualify for EPA's WaterSense label.
A voluntary public-private partnership that identifies and promotes high performance products and programs that help preserve the nation’s water supply (EO 13423, Section 2(c)).
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This report, EPA/600/R-06/037F, was prepared by the National Center for Environmental Assessment (NCEA) within EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD). This report supplements the Guidelines for Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) (U.S. EPA, 1998a) by addressing issues unique to ecological assessments of watersheds. Using lessons learned from watershed ERAs, the report presents guidance and examples for scientists performing watershed ecological assessments. The report also can be useful to risk assessors, watershed associations, landscape ecologists, and others seeking to increase the use of environmental assessment data in decision making.
The Clean Watersheds Needs Survey 2004, made available in January 2008, summarizes the results of EPA's 14th national survey on pollution control capital investment needs required to meet environmental and human health objectives of the Clean Water Act. The report provides vital information for Congress, state legislatures, communities and others to help them make informed decisions relating to clean water infrastructure and pollution control methods.
This document is an update to Saving Bays and Estuaries, published in 1989. Questions about managing pollution runoff, increasing wildlife habitat and controlling invasive species in the nation's estuaries are among those addressed in this document.
Developed by EPA's Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, this document is designed to help anyone undertaking a watershed planning effort, but should be particularly useful to persons working with impaired or threatened waters. It contains in-depth guidance on quantifying existing pollutant loads, developing estimates of the load reductions required to meet water quality standards, developing effective management measures, and tracking progress once the plan is implemented. New materials were added to the handbook including ways to protect important elements of the landscape and aquatic habitats within a watershed.
This guidance helps citizens and municipalities in urban areas protect bodies of water from polluted runoff that can result from everyday activities. These scientifically sound techniques are the best practices known today. The guidance will also help states to implement their nonpoint source control programs and municipalities to implement their Phase II Storm Water Permit Programs. This is publication number EPA 841-B-05-004, November 2005.
EPA's redesigned nutrients web site now houses new information and tools that will help states, territories, and tribes establish and meet numeric water quality criteria for nitrogen and phosphorus. The new tools include: Scientific Literature Reviews, Wetlands Criteria Technical Guidance, Webcasts, and the BMP and Treatment Technologies Clearinghouse. The clearinghouse contains EPA-evaluated data sets on (1) agricultural best management practices (BMPs) and conservation practices, (2) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater BMPs, (3) Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) treatment technologies, and (4) Water Environment Research Federation (WERF) stormwater data.
Prepared by U.S. EPA, this report is the first consistent evaluation of the streams that feed rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. "Wadeable streams" are those which are shallow enough to be adequately sampled without a boat. Conducted between 2000 and 2004, the study was based on sampling at 1,392 sites selected to represent the condition of all streams that share similar ecological characteristics in various regions. It was a collaborative effort that involved dozens of state environmental and natural resource agencies, federal agencies, universities and other organizations. More than 150 field biologists were trained to collect environmental samples using a standardized method.
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Published by EPA, this document describes the 10 recommended elements of a wetland monitoring and assessment program including a program strategy, monitoring objectives and design, and data management. It further describes wetland-specific assessment approaches available to states and tribes.
This report was issued by NatureServe, a nonprofit conservation group that supports and supplements species data collection and analysis efforts at the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the Environmental Protection Agency. This report indicates that that nearly a third of at-risk plant and animal species found on wetlands, which are geographically isolated from lakes, rivers, and streams, cannot be protected either by the nation's clean water or endangered species laws.
From the White House Council on Environmental Quality, this is the second annual progress report on President George W. Bush’s Wetlands Initiative. Since the President set the goal on Earth Day 2004 to move beyond “no net loss” of wetlands and attain an overall increase in the amount and quality of wetlands in America, we have restored, created, protected, or improved 1,797,000 acres of wetlands. We now have 588,000 acres of wetlands that did not exist in 2004, we have improved the quality of 563,000 acres that already existed in 2004, and we have protected the high quality of another 646,000 acres of existing
wetlands. These accomplishments were achieved through conservation programs separate from the mitigation programs that increase and improve wetlands as replacements for wetlands developed for other uses.
This is a compilation of 17 constructed wetland system case studies.
This document provides technical guidance and reference for use by state, territory, and authorized tribal managers as well as the public in the implementation of nonpoint source (NPS) pollution management programs. The guidance contains information on the best available, economically achievable means of reducing nonpoint source pollution through the protection and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas, as well as the implementation of vegetated treatment systems.
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This guide was developed by DOI and a group of electric companies (the Avian Power Line Interactive Committee) to help the industry protect birds from electrocution on utility poles and power lines. The suggested practices volume provides technical instructions to help utilities implement some of the electrocution avoidance measures called for in the Avian Protection Plans.
This workbook contains basic information on programs in USDA that could be used to fund invasive species related projects.
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The training module is designed to help watershed organizations develop and implement sustainable funding plans. Case studies are included throughout the module to provide real examples of finance strategies employed by nonprofit watershed organizations in the U.S. This module was developed by EPA's Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds Sustainable Finance Team in cooperation with the Watershed Academy.
Training is available upon request on topics such as: ArcGIS, Metadata, Managing Visitor Use in Coastal and Marine Protected Areas, The Coastal Zone Management Role in Managing Hazards. Understanding Marine Protected Areas Survival Skills for Managing Coastal Resources. This is not a complete listing of topics.
Conference materials including the agenda, newsletters, case study information, breakout summaries and more.
Presentation by Cheryl Kollin, Director Urban Forest Center American Forests
The Local Government Environmental Assistance Network (LGEAN), in cooperation with American Forests, hosted a webcast in May 2004 called "Seeing Green with Trees: The Economic and Environmental Benefits of Urban Forests." A multimedia CD-ROM recording of that webcast is now available. It includes a Windows Media audio/video recording of the original webcast, as well as the individual PowerPoint presentations. It also contains several fact sheets on various urban forestry-related topics produced by American Forests, and Internet links outlining the benefits of urban forestry. To order a copy of the CD-ROM, contact LGEAN at 877/TO-LGEAN or lgean@icma.org.
This module provides an overview of water efficiency with the intention of evaluating various types of commercial and institutional water uses, water efficient technological options available, and potential water conservation savings that can be achieved.
A resource guide that presents helpful information for installation leaders who seek to work with local government officials to address encroachment, compatible land use and other sustainability issues that threaten the testing and training mission. It was developed by the International City/County Management Association and the National Association of Counties in partnership with the Sustainable Ranges Initiative in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
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January 2009
February 2009
March 2009
May 2009
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Jan 7, 2009
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Executive Order 13423
