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![](images/text/titleAsbestos.jpg) ![](images/text/contactAsbestosLead.jpg)
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Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals found in rocks all around the world. Asbestos crystals form long, narrow fibers that are invisible to the naked eye. Asbestos doesn't burn, doesn't conduct electricity and is flexible yet strong. Asbestos can be woven into cloth, rope or added to other manufactured goods for strength or fireproofing.
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Asbestos exposure can cause asbestosis(scarring of the lungs), pleuritis (inflammation of the lung cavity), lung cancer and mesothelioma (a type of cancer that is always fatal). Most people who get these diseases have been exposed to high levels of asbestos for a long time, however no safe level of asbestos exposure has been found. Asbestos fibers in the air are odorless and invisible so you won't know when you are breathing them in.
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No, asbestos is still legal and found in many new building materials and products today. Asbestos was banned from a small number of specific products such as paper and spray-on fireproofing. Asbestos is still legally used in a wide variety of products including vehicle brake pads, drywall (aka gypboard, wallboard), vinyl floor tile and sheeting, duct tape, glues and mastics.
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Any time you disturb building materials that have historically been manufactured with asbestos. These are known as "suspect" asbestos containing materials. Some common suspect materials include:
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Asbestos-cement corrugated and flat sheet |
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Asbestos-cement shingle & siding |
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Ceiling tiles and lay-in panels |
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Spray-applied and blown-in insulation |
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Pipeline wrap |
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Roof coatings and felt |
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Asbestos-cement pipe |
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Flooring felt and backing |
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Vinyl & asphalt asbestos floor tile and sheet |
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Textured paints and coatings |
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Drywall and acoustical, decorative plaster |
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Commercial corrugated and specialty paper |
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Glues, mastics, spackling compounds, caulking, putties and other sealants |
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Disc brake pads, drum brake linings, brake blocks |
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Fireproofing Materials (fire doors, roll board, blankets, curtains) |
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Automatic transmission components |
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Electrical wiring |
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Clutch facings |
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High temperature gaskets |
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Wallboard and Millboard |
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Disclaimer:This list does not include every product/material that may contain asbestos. It is intended as a general guide to show which types of materials may contain asbestos. Consult with DPW Environmental before engaging in any demolition or renovation projects.
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Before starting any project that disturbs a suspect asbestos containing material contact DPW Environmental Division to find out if the material contains asbestos. Disturb means cut, drill, saw, pound or otherwise contact a material in a way that has the potential to create dust. Workers conducting asbestos disturbing activities must wear a tight-fitting respirator with HEPA filters (dust masks do not protect against asbestos) and use wet methods to prevent asbestos fibers from getting in the air. Wet methods include using a spray bottle to wet the area before cutting or sanding. After the work is done, use a mop instead of sweeping.
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NO, Based on Army Garrison, HI policy and the Hawaii State Law, the burning of any material in an open fire is not allowed anywhere on the Army Garrison, HI. Likewise, the Army Garrison, HI does not have a classified document incinerator.
It is recommended that units utilize an NSA-approved shredder for classified documents. There are several document destruction companies servicing Hawaii. Many offer mobile truck services where documents are destroyed behind a locked security screen at your location. Once your documents are destroyed, you are given a certificate of destruction. The unit is responsible for selecting a provider for this service and the Army des not endorse any particular company. Prices will vary depending on the services provided, so it will be up to the unit to find the best value.
Please remember that "cross-cut" or "confetti cut" shredded paper is NOT accepted at the Army Recycling Center and can be disposed in the trash or other acceptable method as appropriate.
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Yes, contact DPW, Environmental Division during project planning, prior to the purchase of any generator. In accordance with the Hawaii Administrative Rules (State Law) and the State of Hawaii, Department of Health Clean Air Branch, an evaluation for permitting purposes will need to be made by DPW, Environmental Division to avoid delays in generator use or operation.
The following information for the potential new generator will be needed:
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Manufacturer |
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Model Number |
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Type of fuel that would be used |
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The maximum standy-by power of the generator engine (kW or BHP) |
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NOx emission level for the generator engine (g/bhp/h) |
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Gallons per hour of the fuel system when running at 100% of the prime power |
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The anticipated number of hours the generator will run each week. |
Most of this information can be found on the engine specification sheet for the generator engine.
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Please contact DPW Environmental. DPW Environmental will turn this fire extinguisher into the DoD Reserve. Halon fire extinguishers must be recycled since halon is considered an ozone depleting substance. Halon production ended on December 31, 1993 and is no longer available. The Department of Defense is stockpiling unused halon for future use in needed equipment.
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Stormwater is the runoff that occurs with natural precipitation such as rain or snowmelt.
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A stormwater inlet can be a curbside opening or a grate that drains stormwater from streets, yards, and sidewalks.
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A sewer system is a collection of underground pipes that routes domestic sewage from homes and other buildings to a wastewater treatment plant. Storm sewers, on the other hand, are not usually routed to a treatment system. Instead, they convey runoff through open drainage ditches and underground pipes and empty directly to the ground, streams, or ponds.
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Soil and dirt, trash and debris, cigarette butts, oil and grease, and metals are prevalent pollutants found in storm sewers. Storm drains are used for quickly diverting stormwater away from urban areas to prevent flooding and water damage. However, when these pollutants are washed into streams, ponds, and rivers, water quality can be harmed.
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NEVER dispose of ANYTHING into a storm drain! Only wash tactical vehicles at designated washracks using only authorized detergents to do so. If you need guidance on proper disposal, contact the Directorate of Public Works Environmental Division. Any toxic chemicals, such as paint and solvents must be turned-in to the installation's 90 days Temporary Accumulation Point (TAP).
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Its important because it helps to Improves fishing and boating. Maintains recreational swimming areas. Prevent diseases from contaminated seafood and swimming in contaminated water. Preserves natural beauty of streams, rivers, ponds, lakes and oceans.
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Let's say your house sits on a one-half acre lot. And let's say you get a storm that drops 1 inch of rain. You've just received 13,577 gallons of water on your yard! A big bath holds about 50 gallons of water, so if you could save that inch of water that fell you could take a daily bath for 271 days! (Careful now, that 13,577 gallons of water weighs over 56 tons... so don't put it in your bathtub all at once).
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Flooding occurs in known floodplains when prolonged rainfall over several days, intense rainfall over a short period of time, or a debris jam causes a river or stream to overflow and flood the surrounding area.
As land is converted from fields or woodlands to roads and parking lots, it loses its ability to absorb rainfall. Urbanization increases the amount of impervious areas, causing runoff to be two to six times over what would occur on natural terrain. During periods of urban flooding, streets can become swift moving rivers and can be dangerous for drivers. Because of the buoyancy effects and power of moving water, even a foot of moving water can be enough to carry away some cars.
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Odor producing substances found in sanitary wastewater result from the decomposition of organic matter containing sulfur and nitrogen under anaerobic conditions (no oxygen present). Inorganic gases produced from sanitary wastewater decomposition commonly include hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, carbon dioxide, and methane. Hydrogen sulfide is the most commonly known and prevalent odorous gas associated with sanitary wastewater collection and treatment systems.
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Hydrogen sulfide is the primary gas released from wastewater treatment plant operations. It is a byproduct of bacterial breakdown of organic matter found at any wastewater treatment plant. They are emitted at low doses and the only health hazards associated is irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
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Here is a list of things you can do at home and work to help keep our waters clean:
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Inspect equipments and vehicles for leaks. |
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Repair leaks promptly. |
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Recycle used oil and filters in accordance with established work procedures in your unit/organization. Recycle your POV used oil and filters at AAFES gas station or Autocraft shop. |
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Use drip pans and funnels when changing fluids. |
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Dry sweep floors instead of wet washing |
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Wash cars with a bucket and sponge, not a running hose. |
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Keep a spill kit in your work area. |
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Clean up spills immediately. |
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Properly dispose of waste material. |
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Do not rinse the spill area with water. |
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Clean up after your pet. |
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Dispose of pet waste by flushing, burying, or trashing. |
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Do not put fats down the drain. |
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Containerize fats for trash disposal. |
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Use sink strainers. |
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Buy only amounts of lawn chemical needed for the job. Determine application area and mix only the amount needed. Spot treat when possible. |
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Promptly pick up leaves, pruned limbs, and other yard waste from your sidewalks, lawn, and driveway. |
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Compost or mulch yard waste, or take to special drop off for yard waste. |
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If other options not available, bag yard waste for proper disposal. |
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Do not blow grass clippings or leaves into ditches or streams. |
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Store chemicals in locked storage areas. |
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Store pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in original labeled containers. |
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Store like chemicals together. |
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Keep containers tightly closed. |
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Do not flush hazardous items down the drain. |
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Tightly seal paint cans and store upside-down to allow a seal to form around the lid. |
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Do not pour hazardous products on the ground or into gutters or storm drains. |
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Donate usable paint, solvents, automotive fluids, pesticides, fertilizers, and cleaning products for reuse. |
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Use nontoxic (or less toxic) alternatives when possible. |
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In Hawaii, the primary drinking water supply comes from underground aquifers fed by rain-fall. USAG-HI obtains its drinking water through a combination of public systems and privately owned and operated systems.
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Aliamanu - (Water comes from the Navy - Army maintains pumps and tanks) |
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Fort Shafter |
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Tripler Army Medical Center |
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Schofield Barracks/Wheeler Army Airfield |
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Helemano - (Water comes from Schofield and Navy systems) |
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PTA - Privatized system |
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KMC - Privatized system |
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Water leaving our work areas and homes goes through a sewer system to a sewage-treatment plant where it is cleaned and sent into streams, rivers, or the ocean. Sometimes the water is reused for other purposes, such as watering golf courses and parks.
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Yes. Water supplied to USAG-HI and its sub-installations is tested regularly. Details can be found in our annual Consumer Confidence Report which can be accessed on the Drinking Water page.
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DPW is required to notify the public by newspaper, mail, radio, TV, or hand-delivery if your water doesn't meet EPA or state standards or if there is a waterborne disease emergency. If there is a waterborne disease emergency, DPW will notify the affected populace by hand delivering notices as well as using the Army Hawaii Family Housing call max system to reach as many residents as possible. The notice will describe any precautions you need to take, such as boiling your water.
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As mandated under Federal and State law, water samples are taken throughout the year at various points within the distribution system for all drinking water systems serving the U.S. Army Garrison -Hawaii. The Consumer Confidence Report is based on the data from these water samples and also includes information on the origin of the drinking water and sources of potential contamination. The CCR is sent by mail (or in some cases email) to all residents by July 1st each year. DPW tries to reach as many consumers as possible by placing an article in the Hawaii Army Weekly about the availability of the CCR on the Garrison web page, as well as having copies posted on bulletin boards by major commands. The most recent CCR for each water system can be accessed on the Drinking Water page.
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Even when water meets EPA's standards, you may still object to it's taste, smell, or appearance. EPA sets secondary standards based on these aesthetic characteristics (not health effects) which water system operators and states can choose to adopt. There are many reasons why the water's appearance, taste, and odor may not be desirable. These effects may be due to something in the water system's design (for example, if a an old World War II building was designed for a higher water use than the current use; i.e., older barracks buildings designed for many latrine and shower users, but current usage is only a small group of administrative employees). When water is not being flushed through pipes in the manner or volume for which it was designed, aesthetic issues can result. In other cases, some of the older metal pipes may be rusting, and some of this rust can leach into the water. The water's aesthetic properties may also be affected temporarily if repair or other work is being done nearby. Common complaints about water aesthetics include: Temporary cloudiness (typically caused by air bubbles), or chlorine taste (which can be improved by letting the water stand exposed to the air).
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Many people nationwide believe strongly in using filters on their water fountains or faucets, and that the water will be safer to drink as a result. This is a misconception. A filter will only help with aesthetic properties of the water (appearance, odor, or taste). The filter is not providing any health protection. USAG-HI and its sub-installation water systems do not pose a health risk because our monitoring and sampling indicates that we are meeting all the safety and regulatory standards.
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Bottled water is not necessarily safer to drink than tap water. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards for tap water, however, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the standards for bottled water which are based on EPA standards. Tap water or bottled water can be considered safe to drink if it meets these standards. Although bottled water may be treated more than tap water, in some cases it is treated less or not at all. In order to obtain information on the quality of bottled water contact the bottling company directly. Consumers should be aware that all drinking water (bottled & tap) may be reasonably expected to contain some contaminants. Children or people with severely weakened immune systems have special needs and may need to further treat their water before consumption. If you would like further information regarding bottled water quality, you may visit the EPA website at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/faq/faq.html#bw.
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While our nation can benefit from the wise use of energy at Federal facilities, we at the Garrison, can directly reaped the benefits from our savings in our operational budget and our ability to fund mission and quality of life improvement projects. As the nation's largest energy consumer, the Federal Government has a tremendous opportunity and acknowledged responsibility to lead by example. Efficient energy management helps:
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Reallocating funds for mission and quality of life improvement projects |
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Saves taxpayer dollars |
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Reduces greenhouse gas emissions |
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Protects the environment and natural resources |
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Contributes to our national security |
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In addition, Federal regulations require Federal agencies to meet a number of energy and water management goals. |
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Energy use in residential housing and barracks is a substantial portion of the installation's utility budget, representing a large source of potential savings. Changing your habits to conserve at home, helps the installation fund additional mission and quality of life improvement projects.
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There are many ways to find answers to your environmental questions as follows:
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You can contact the DPW Environmental Division to assist you during normal business hours Monday through Friday from 0730-1630 hours. Refer to the "contact us" button on the left tool bar for a directory of subject matter experts and phone numbers.
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You can submit your question online by selecting the "comments/questions" button on the left tool bar menu.
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You can look for answers by environmental topics in the "Sustainability & Environmental Topics from A to Z " guide. Select the button on the left tool bar menu.
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Assist units/organizations establish their environmental compliance programs.
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Provide recycling containers and scheduled pick-ups of recyclables. |
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Conduct site assistance visit and ECO orientation meetings. |
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Setup unit specific environmental compliance continuity book. |
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Conduct courtesy inspections prior to commencement of official inspection schedule. |
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Conduct on-site unit/facility specific mandatory training for all unit personnel. |
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Conduct on-site, unit/facility specific mandatory Senior Leader Environmental Compliance Training (SLECT. |
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Re-establish 30-Day Authorized Use List. |
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Provide guidelines for preventing spills and on-site support for spill response. |
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Verify potential asbestos and lead-based paint hazards associated with self-help projects. |
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Attend the Senior Leader Environmental Compliance Training (SLECT).
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Attend the quarterly EQCC meetings chaired by the Garrison Commander.
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Complete the online SEM awareness training and ensure all personnel within their units also complete the training.
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Appoint one primary and one alternate ECO at all levels of command down to company/battery size or equivalent.
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Appoint a Cross Functional Team member, Unit Recycling Officer, Unit Energy Conservation Officer (UECO) and Building Energy Monitor (BEM) and ensure full participation in the Garrison's sustainability and conservation programs.
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Be familiar with the installation's Sustainable Environmental Policy and ensure the poster is posted in all work areas. |
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Comply with the installation's mandatory recycling policy.
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Establish Hazardous Material 30-Day Authorized Use List.
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Consult with the Environmental Division prior beginning any self-help projects that affect buildings.
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EQCC stands for Environmental Quality Control Committee. The EQCC meetings are chaired by the Garrison Commander and held on a quarterly basis to help plan, execute, and monitor actions and programs with environmental implications. The committee consist of members representing the operational, logistics, engineering, planning, resource management, legal, medical, environmental, morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR), commissary, exchange service, and safety interests of the command, including military installation tenant activities.
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Call the Environmental Division to report suspected violations of environmental policies on post. Refer to the "contact us button on the left tool bar for a directory of subject matter experts and phone numbers.
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EPAS stands for Environmental Performance Assessment System. EPAS are generally conducted every three years by a team of independent assessors from Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA). External assessments conducted under EPAS include all operations and activities within the installation boundary (including operational ranges, and other training areas), or a representative
sample of similar activity types, and evaluate the installation's overall environmental program performance and conformance with ISO 14001.
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A hazardous waste is any gas, liquid, or solid waste with properties that make it dangerous or capable of having a harmful effect on human health or the environment. Hazardous wastes have one or more of the four hazardous waste characteristics or are specifically listed as a hazardous waste. The four characteristics of hazardous wastes are: ignitibility, corrosivity, reactivity, and/or toxicity.
If your unit or activity generates any waste that meets the above criteria, you are required to manage and dispose of it as a hazardous waste. Please see your unit/organization Environmental Compliance Officer (ECO) for further guidance, or call the Environmental Division for assistance.
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Hazardous Waste generation on the installation is primarily the result of maintenance of Army vehicles, helicopters, equipment and expired shelf-life hazardous materials. Typical wastes generated are: paints, batteries, fluorescent light tubes and process generated wastes (lead based paint debris, chromium/cadmium debris).
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55-gallons of HW and/or 1 quart for acutely HW. Once any of the quantities are exceeded the generator must mark the container with the accumulation start date and coordinate removal to the TAP within 72 hours.
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The TAP is the installation's centralized 90-day hazardous waste storage facility. It is the installation's single point accountability for classifying, conducting chemical analysis, manifesting, bulking, labeling and tracking all waste for ultimate disposal. Units/Organizations are required to contact the TAP, to arrange for pickups, once their facility reaches the accumulation threshold of 55-gallons of HW and/or 1 quart for acutely HW.
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The TAP is located on East Range, Bldg. 6040. See map
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POL is a broad term that includes all petroleum and associated products used generally in the maintenance of tactical vehicles, aircrafts and equipment. Examples include: Used oil (Engine, Gear, transmission, brake, hydraulic, synthetic and heating) ; used antifreeze; used JP-8/Diesel; used Mogas.
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A Universal Waste is a category of waste materials not designated as "hazardous waste", but containing materials that need to be prevented from free release into the environment. In general, universal waste may not be discarded in solid waste landfills.
The best way to reduce the harmful effects of the wastes on human health and the environment is to reduce consumption. The next best thing is to make sure you DON'T throw them in the trash!
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Here are some examples:
TYPE OF WASTE
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HAZARDOUS COMPONENT
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Motor Vehicle, Aircraft and Communication Equipment Batteries
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Lead, Sulfuric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, and Cadmium |
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Tactical rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries |
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Lithium Sulfur Dioxide, Nickel-Cadmium, Nickel Metal Hydride
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POV batteries |
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Lead, Sulfuric Acid |
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Fluorescent Lamps |
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Mercury, antimony, cadmium, barium and lead |
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Electronic Devices |
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Lead |
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Thermometers/Switches |
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Mercury |
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Most Universal Wastes can not be disposed of in the trash!
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Here are some general guidelines for lead acid batteries:
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Lead acid batteries containing acid shall be stored on secondary containment separated new batteries and from incompatible HMs (i.e POLs). |
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Marked with the words "Used Batteries" and date battery was taken out of service. |
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For other non-lead acid batteries refer to the "Sustainability & Environmental Topics from A to Z " guide from the left tool bar. |
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Here are some general guidelines for lead acid batteries:
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Before recycling of battery, make every attempt to recharge and reuse it. |
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Return the battery to your Supply Support Activity (SSA) for recycling. If you do not have a SSA, call the DPW Environmental Division Compliance Inspections Program or the TAP for assistance. |
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For other non-lead acid batteries refer to the "Sustainability & Environmental Topics from A to Z " guide from the left tool bar. |
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Here are some general guidelines:
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Place used fluorescent tubes in the original container. Box must be able to be closed (do not cut end out of box). |
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Label the box with "Universal Waste Lamps". |
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Date the box with the date the first used lamp is put in the box/container (used bulbs should not be maintained in area longer than 6 months). |
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Always close container (with tape) after adding bulbs/lamps. |
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Contact the TAP for pickup. |
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For more information, refer to the Sustainability & Environmental Topics from A to Z
guide. |
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"Hazardous Material" can be defined as any material that, because of its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical characteristics, may pose a real hazard to human health or the environment. Hazardous materials include the following categories:
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Flammable and Combustible Material |
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Toxic Material |
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Corrosive Material |
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Oxidizers |
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Aerosols |
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Compressed Gases |
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Reactives |
Separate regulations and directives cover other type of materials also considered hazardous. They include asbestos; lead-based paint; Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs); ammunition; medical waste; and chemical, biological and radiological materials.
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AUL stands for Authorized Use List. All units, down to the company level, are required (Policy Memorandum USAG-HI 19) to identify all Hazardous Material (HM) necessary to meet daily mission requirements through their AUL.
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Units/organizations are authorized, through their AUL, to store no more than a 30-day HM supply based on the unit's Unit Basic Load (UBL).
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The AUL must be approved and signed by the unit/organization commander, or equivalent for civilian organization, and by the DPW Environmental Division AUL database manager.
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At least annually by 31 January. Changes in the unit/organization processes or activities, affecting the type or quantity of HM necessary, require earlier updates.
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The HMCP is the installation's single point for ordering and receiving Hazardous Material. The HMCP focuses on waste minimization and life-cycle management of hazardous materials before they become waste. Hazardous material users must set up an account with the HMCP and the Environmental Office before HM can be issued. Hazardous material is then received at the central warehouse for bar coding and tracking in the Hazardous Material Management System (HMMS) and subsequently issued to the customers. The HMCP also manages the installation's hazardous material free issue inventory. USAG-HI's HMCP is contractor-operated. The contracting officer's representative (COR) for this contract is the Directorate of Logistics (DOL). Refer to the HMCP Standard Operating Procedure available on the ECO website for more information.
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The free issue inventory is a supply of various items which were paid for by certain activities on post, but donated back to the HMCP for redistribution due to having excess quantities. The installation benefits from the donation since waste disposal costs is avoided. The activity which draws it out later for use benefits by avoiding the procurement cost. Items on the free issue inventory will only be issued if the material is on the unit's AUL.
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The HMCP is located on East Range, Bldg. 6040. See map
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HMMS is a standardized software/database for managing hazardous material procurement and usage. It also contains Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs).
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Many buildings built before 1978 have some paint that contains lead (called lead-based paint). Properties before 1960 have the most lead paint. Lead paint can be present on any painted surface, but it is most often found on windows, trims, doors, railings, columns, porches and outside walls.
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Peeling or damaged lead-based paint is dangerous. Lead dust can be released from peeling or damaged paint, or by sanding or scraping paint. Lead dust settles on floors, window sills and other surfaces and can re-enter the air when people vacuum, sweep or walk through it.
Lead paint in good condition is usually not a problem. Lead-based paint is usually safe unless it is on friction (doors, door jambs or door casings, windows, window frames and casings, paint on floors) or impact surfaces (doors, baseboards, stairs, etc.).
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Lead-based paint can be found on surfaces such as:
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Lead poisoning is one of the most common environmental child health problems in the United States and is caused by too much lead in the body. Lead is especially harmful to children younger than 6, but anyone who eats, drinks or breathes something which has too much lead can get lead poisoning.
Large amounts of lead in a child's blood can cause brain damage, mental retardation, behavior problems, anemia, liver and kidney damage, hearing loss, hyperactivity, developmental delays, other physical and mental problems, and in extreme cases, death. Lead poisoning affects three to four million young children - one in six under age 6.
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Molds are forms of fungi that are found naturally both indoors and outdoors. Moisture and humidity make mold overgrowth a problem in some buildings. Molds produce spores, which are released in the air and can cause allergy symptoms in some people, although most people will not be affected by mold in their environment. Molds come in a variety of colors, including green, black, white, brown and orange. Mold sometimes appears fuzzy, but often appears in slimy streaks. There is often an earthy or mildew type of odor around mold.
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Molds love moisture and need to have a food source. Good food sources for molds are cloth, wood, and wallboard. When there is moisture that is not dried promptly (for example, a burst pipe or leaking windows in rain storms), molds move in and reproduce quickly. In humid environments, keeping surfaces dry enough to prevent mold growth can be quite a challenge.
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Molds produce spores, which are invisible and small enough to travel through the air and into your lungs. You can also be exposed to mold by skin contact.
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The most common health problem from molds is allergy symptoms, including runny nose, scratchy throat, itchy eyes, sneezing, and in more severe cases, wheezing and coughing. Wheezing is a serious symptom that may mean asthma, and should be evaluated by a health care provider. Allergy symptoms from mold are more common in people who already have allergy problems. Some people exposed to mold report flu-like symptoms, dizziness and other non-allergic symptoms, but the cause of these symptoms is not known. Although molds can produce toxins ("mycotoxins") research so far has not shown a connection between these and non-allergic symptoms.
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Any obvious water leaks or similar sources of moisture should be corrected promptly to prevent mold growth. Visible mold on hard surfaces such as tile or vinyl should be removed through surface cleaning with a detergent or soap solution. Mold on porous materials such as ceiling tile or wallboard requires replacement of the contaminated materials, and may need professional removal with appropriate worker protection. If you live in government housing, you should contact your facility manager for assistance.
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Surface cleaning of hard surfaces should be carried out as above. Visible mold in your work area should be reported to your supervisor, who will bring it to the attention of the industrial hygienist and facility manager. Mold in the work area should be removed, and causes of the growth, such as water leaks must be corrected to prevent further growth. Any obvious water leaks or similar sources of moisture should be corrected promptly to prevent mold growth.
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You should make note of the timing of the symptoms and see a health care provider for evaluation. If you have a medical treatment facility on site, you may be evaluated there. One benefit of this approach is that the on-site clinicians can work as a team with the industrial hygienist in evaluating your work area.
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The NRP staff, employed by the US Army, the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU) and the Center for Environmental Management of Military lands (CEMML), is responsible for managing rare plants and animals, and the ecosystems upon which they depend, on Army training areas. The legal requirement driving the Army's ecosystem management program is the Endangered Species act (ESA) Sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2). These sections of the ESA require that Federal agencies use their authority to carry out programs for the conservation of species listed on the ESA, and ensure that their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any federally listed species. Since1995, ANRP has managed lands that are home to almost 30% of the State's endangered species, including plants, tree snails, and forest birds. NRP has also established cooperative relationships with land managers and landowners on Oahu and the neighbor islands to successfully promote ecosystem protection partnerships. Through these efforts, the Army has become a major contributor to conservation in Hawaii.
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The Army uses ecosystems, like forests, to provide realistic training exercises. Because of this, the Army recognizes the importance of protecting ecosystems and the plants and animals that live in them. Further, the Army is required by federal law (the Endangered Species Act) to protect endangered species on Army Training lands. This is specifically written into Army Regulation 200-1 which states: "DA personnel at all levels must ensure that they carry out mission requirements in harmony with the requirements of the Endangered Species Act." These requirements were the reason the Army developed a program responsible for protecting endangered species on Army lands: the Army Natural Resources Program.
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The NRP's management actions are guided by three multi-species management plans developed with the help of expert state and federal biologists from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Honolulu County Board of Water Supply, Watershed Partnerships, and various private landowners.
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Yes. Makua is home to at least 44 endangered species, including 42 native plants, one species of kahuli tree snail (Achatinella mustelina), and the Oahu Elepaio (Chasiempis ibidis), a Hawaiian fly catcher bird.
The Army spends about $4 million each year to protect the endangered plants and animals of Makua. More than 50 contracted and civilian employees work for NRP to protect these endangered species from multiple threats, including: invasive weeds; wildfires; rats; ungulates (pigs and goats); and even carnivorous snails and slugs. The NRP's threat control and protection actions in Makua are guided by a multi-species management plan developed with the help of expert state and federal biologists.
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NRP manages populations of endangered species on both the Koolau and Waianae mountain ranges within a variety of habitats including coastal strand vegetation, dry forests, montane forests, wet forests, and semi-bog ecosystems.
Due to the small size of Oahu's Army installations and the critically endangered status of many of the species that exist on this land, the Army, in addition to performing on-site mitigation, is required to establish and protect off-site populations in order to reach stabilization numbers for each endangered species they are required to protect.
Thus, in addition to protecting endangered species on Army land, NRP manages populations of endangered plants and animals on land owned by the State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Honolulu County Board of Water Supply, Kamehameha Schools, and other private land owners.
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As of 2010, NRP staff has constructed many miles of fence lines to protect more than 87,000 acres of land on Oahu and Hawaii Island. Building fences is an important first step towards protecting endangered species, by removing large scale threats posed by wild pigs, goats, and sheep. NRP staff actively manages populations of endangered species within these fenced areas, controlling additional threats that cross fence boundaries, including: wildfire, invasive weeds, rats, carnivorous snails and even slugs. In addition, staff protect populations of endangered plants and animals within these fenced areas by regularly monitoring their numbers and health status, and, in the case of plants, by boosting their population numbers with re-introductions of endangered species grown in NRP greenhouses.
While most of the land managed by NRP is owned by the U.S. Army, NRP staff also manage populations of endangered species on land that is privately owned, in an effort to maintain a healthy population size for each individual endangered species that the Army is required to protect.
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The NRP is responsible for protecting endangered plants, animals and their habitats found on Army land. The specific species targeted in the NRP's management plans include 51 endangered plants species, seven endangered snail species, two species of endangered fruit flies and one endangered bird species. A comprehensive list is provided HERE.
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The NRP provides a variety of natural resource-based positions in the following specialties:
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Natural resource management field work |
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Botany and rare plant management |
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Horticulture |
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Fence construction & ungulate control |
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Small vertebrate control |
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Weed control |
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Ecosystem restoration |
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Rare snail conservation |
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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) |
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Outreach & volunteer coordinating |
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Office administration |
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Fiscal administration & purchasing |
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Navy, Marines, & Air Force |
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Honolulu Fire Department |
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State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources - Division of Forestry & Wildlife, Natural Area Reserve Systems, and Plant Extinction Prevention Program (DLNR/DOFAW) |
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Honolulu County Board of Water Supply (BWS) |
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The Nature Conservancy (TNC) |
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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) |
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Kamehameha Schools and various other private land owners |
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University of Hawaii (UH) |
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Oahu Invasive Species Committee (OISC) |
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Hawaii Conservation Alliance (HCA) |
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Pacific Climate Change Cooperative (PICCC) |
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Hawaii Conservation and Restoration Initiative (HCRI) |
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Koolau and Waianae Watershed partnerships (KMWP and WMWP) |
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Three Mountains Alliance |
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Various species specific working groups and recovery teams (i.e. Elepaio working group) |
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Coordinating Group for Alien Pest Species (CGAPS) |
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The following two stories highlight two accomplishments of the NRP:
Haha, a lone lobelia...
One of Makua's most endangered plants, haha (Cyanea superba spp. superba), was almost lost forever. In 1998, less than ten of these lobelias remained on the planet.
Rats climbed their tall stems and devoured their fruit. If any fruits made it to the soil to sprout, slugs mowed down the tiny seedlings. The few remaining plants were rapidly aging and unable to successfully produce new plants.
Due to this alarming trend, the Oahu Army Natural Resources Program (OANRP) staff, in cooperation with local botanists, set out to save these haha from extinction. Seeds were collected and grown until they developed into healthy 3-foot tall plants - a process that takes up to three years.
The OANRP staff planted the young haha back into the gulches of Makua Valley's upper forest, marking the nation's first endangered plant re-introduction onto Department of Defense land. Staff increased rat control efforts, and researched the use of an organic bait to control slugs around these plants.
These efforts continue to this day, and more than 100 haha now thrive in Makua's gulches. Their future remains delicate, but the hand-planted haha are now successfully producing new seedlings, giving hope to a species that truly experienced the brink of extinction.
Loulu, our only native palm trees...
Hawaii is home to only a single type of native palm: loulu, a kind of fan-palm known scientifically as Pritchardia. Loulu in Makua Valley belong to the endangered species Pritchardia kaalae.
Only 74 mature loulu were known in Makua Valley in the mid-1990s, and none of them were producing new plants. Rats climbed the loulu's tall trunks and devoured their fruit, destroying the seeds within.
The OANRP staff began controlling rats around these plants, but other predators were also at work. Goats, common in Makua at that time, were constantly grazing young plants and seedlings. With the help of a fence constructed by the U.S. Army along nearly the entire perimeter of the Valley, goats were successfully excluded from Mäkua in 2004.
Today, old and new plants flourish due to this combined rat and goat control. Seedlings carpet the southern ridge of Makua, and nearly 1,000 young loulu are thriving. The original 74 mature loulu still remain, joined by additional plants reintroduced by the OANRP staff. These loulu are able to produce flowers, fruit and seeds - the makings of future generations.
Other accomplishments:
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2008 Military Conservation Partner Award |
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2006 Military Conservation Partner Award |
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Currently, more than 100 contracted and civilian employees work for NRP. The NRP staff are housed within two office buildings on Oahu and one at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii Island, with about 50 employees on each island.
Our main Natural Resource Program building on Oahu is located at Schofield Barracks West Range, at 1123 Oahu St. Here you will find a unique Native Plant Garden, with informative interpretive signage that describes many of the endangered species and natural habitats managed by OANRP. Visitors are welcome to tour the garden during normal business hours, 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Mon.-Thur.
Our second Natural Resource Program building on Oahu is located at 1595 Higgins Rd., located within the Schofield Water Treatment Plant fenced compound, across from the Kamehameha Hwy. entrance to Wheeler Army Airfield.
Our Natural Resource Program building on Hawaii Island is located at Pohakuloa Training Area, building T-93.
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There are many opportunities to become involved with the ANRP and the work they do to protect natural resources on Oahu: volunteering, outreach, internships and jobs with the ANRP are all available. Please visit each topic below for more information.
VOLUNTEERING: The ANRP offers volunteer service trips in several forests on Oahu. Please click here for more information.
OUTREACH: The OANRP offers outreach opportunities to the community interested in learning about and helping to protect O'ahu's native plants and animals on Army land. Please contact one of the OANRP’s environmental outreach specialists if you are interested in having the OANRP participate in school presentations, career fairs or other community events.
INTERNSHIPS: The OANRP offers paid summer internships to provide individuals with the rare opportunity to work in and preserve some of Oahu's most pristine native ecosystems, while learning techniques and skills essential to the field of natural resource conservation in Hawaii. An announcement describing the internships is posted in January of each year, with an application due-date in March, and intern positions running from June-August. If you are interested in the OANRP summer internships, please contact one of the environmental outreach specialists.
JOBS: Most of the OANRP staff are employed by the Research Corporation of the University of Hawai'i (RCUH) under a contract with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), which administers funds given to the University of Hawai'i and the Pacific International Center for High Technology Research (PICHTR) from the U.S. Army to manage natural resources, specifically endangered species, on Army lands. Any job postings for OANRP positions are listed at the RCUH website, www.rcuh.com.
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Solid Waste (SW) is defined as garbage, refuse and other discarded material. Solid wastes can be solid, semi-solid, sludge, liquid and contaminated gaseous wastes. SW does not include hazardous waste, recyclables or the waste of domestic animals.
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Recycling is defined by the Hawaii Department of Health and environment as using the same materials over and over again to form new products. There are three stages of recycling: collecting, processing and reusing. When something is recycled it is removed from the solid waste stream, collected, processed and remanufactured, completing the circle as something new.
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1. Recycling conserves landfill space
2. Recycling recovers raw materials
3. Recycling reduces pollution
4. Recycling saves energy.
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Call the Army Recycling Center: (808) 655-0011
For residential recycling, contact your Army Family Housing Center (phone: 808-275-3189).
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Call the Army Recycling Center at (808) 655-0011 (leave a message) or online at: https://dpwhawaii.army.mil/pickup
For residential recycling, contact your Army Family Housing Center (phone: 808-275-3189).
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Yes. Dumpsters containing cardboard and other recyclables will not be picked up and you will be required to remove the recyclable items before your trash is collected.
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Dry corrugated cardboard, white office paper (incl. "spaghetti cut" shredded), newspaper, glossy paper, #1 and #2 plastics, aluminum can, glass bottles, magazines, phone books, toner cartridges, scrap metal (uncontaminated), wood pallets, untreated wood waste & green waste (limited quantities).
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Plastics that have the or the symbol is recycled by the USAG-HI Recycling Program. This includes HI-5 plastic bottles as well as non-deposit plastic containers like shampoo and detergent bottles.
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Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE). This is a clear and tough plastic. Some examples include: soft drink bottles and peanut butter jars.
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High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This type of plastic is strong and protects the contents. Some examples include: milk or juice jugs, shampoo and bleach bottles.
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You must call the Emergency Spill Response Line at (808) 656-1111 immediately to report spills of hazardous materials/substances. If a spill of an unfamiliar substance occurs or if the safety of personnel is in question, call 911.
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Not much. The benzene in a 10 gallon gasoline leak can contaminate about 12 million gallons of water.
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The Army Strategy for the Environment, 2004 defines Army sustainability as an Army that:
The USAG-HI "triple bottom line" logo represents the installation's commitment to sustainable practices. "Ho'okahi Kakou ~ We are one" sums up the installation's pledge to simultaneously balance its environmental stewardship obligations and the needs of the Hawaiian community while planning its mission requirements.
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The following are facets to Army sustainability:
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Sustainability is a concept; not a program, process or system. |
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Sustainability is focused on the mission and its link to the natural and built environments and includes land management, operations and infrastructure. |
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It involves a cross functional approach including all stakeholders - inside and outside the fence line. |
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Installation Sustainability, like safety, is everyone's business. |
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Sustainability is important to the United States Army because it is the methodology whereby the Army will remain viable as a security force into the future.
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Here are some examples:
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Strengthen military units operations in Hawaii; |
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Meet Test, Training, and Mission Requirements; |
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Minimize Impacts and Total Ownership Costs; |
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Enhance Well-Being; |
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Drive Innovation. |
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"Sustainability" is an overarching term which includes protection for the environment. Sustainability can be described as meeting the needs of today without leaving an environmental bill for the next generation to pay. By conducting Army business sustainably, the Army remains viable for the next thirty to fifty years. You cannot accomplish that goal without also protecting the environment because the environment is vital to the Army.
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Goal 1 - |
Execute all requirements in support of ARFORGEN cycle |
Goal 2 - |
Promote community well-being. |
Goal 3 - |
Recruit, develop and retain an adaptive, innovative, customer-focused workforce. |
Goal 4 - |
Optimize resources and environmental stewardship to minimize the impact on the natural environment and community. |
Goal 5 - |
Provide quality facility, infrastructure and responsive services to support mission requirements. |
Goal 6 - |
Advance & enhance internal/external community relations and partnerships. |
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A sustainable Environmental Management (SEM) system is the tool, USAG-HI uses to ensure we meet the requirements of ISO 14001, an internationally recognized standard for environmental management.
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The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) developed the ISO 14001 standard to provide a set of internationally recognized criteria for environmental management. The Army adopted the ISO 14001 model because it is a global standard that will help the Army meet its global mission. The ISO 14001 provides a common framework by which all Army environmental programs must be structured.
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If you are part of a reserve or active military component unit, civilian or tenant organization, contractor or other agency associated with USAG-HI operations, you must:
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Be familiar with the installation's SEM policy. |
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Ensure the SEM policy poster is posted in your work area. |
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Complete the online SEM General Awareness Training. |
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Understand how your actions can impact the environment and what you must do to minimize their impacts. |
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Participate in the installation Cross Functional Team (CFT) meeting if you have been appointed to do so. |
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CFT stands for Cross Functional Team. The installation CFT is comprised of members from various installation organizations reserve or active military component unit, civilian or tenant organization, contractor or other agency associated with USAG-HI operations.
CFT members are the SEM experts and proponents in each functional or core business area they represents. Typical responsibilities of the CFT include:
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Gathering, organizing, and disseminating environmental related information; |
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Working with existing committees and organizations to get their help
in implementing and maintaining the installation SEM; |
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Collecting and evaluating SEM documentation; |
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Developing or reviewing SEM procedures; |
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Managing/ implementing changes resulting from SEM implementation. |
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The SEM policy is USAG-HI's overall direction for addressing environmental stewardship responsibilities to protect and conserve our land, air and water.
The USAG-HI Environmental Policy poster has been signed by the Garrison Commander and the US Army Hawaii Senior Commander. It emphasizes our continuing commitment to the environment and the establishment of program goals that lead to a sustainable installation. It is mission focus, supports troop unit readiness and conforms to the ISO 14001 requirements.
If you are part of a reserve or active military component unit, civilian or tenant organization, contractor or other agency associated with USAG-HI operations, you must be familiar with the installation's SEM policy and its key points:
» Responsible, Efficient, & Effective Use of Resources
» Sustaining the Environment for a Secure Future
The Right Way (Comply with environmental regulations)
- our obligation is to preserve and protect our Environment
- do what is right; legally, ethically and morally
The Green Way (Prevent pollution)
- each and everyone of us can contribute to a Sustainable US Army Hawaii
- do the 'little things'
- conserve, preserve, prevent
All The Way (Continually Improve)
- Sustainable US Army Hawaii is a 'mind-set'
- it will take time, persistence and commitment from everyone
- make Sustainability a consideration in all you do!
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USAG-HI must conduct annual internal audits of its SEM in order to maintain conformance with the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard and ensure installation established procedures are being followed.
Internal audits fall into two broad categories: (1) Evaluation of SEM procedures; and (2) Evaluation of compliance with legal and other requirements. Internal installation personnel or external parties can perform these audits. The results of these audits are documented and used to correct or prevent problems from reoccurring. Results of internal audits and corrective action plans are reviewed by installation senior leaders on an annual basis.
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An environmental aspect is an element of your activities, products, and services that can interact with the environment. Think of aspects as the "cause" of a cause and effect relationship.
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An environmental impact of an aspect is how that aspect changes the environment, whether adverse or beneficial.
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Regulations, Management Plans, Standard Operating Procedures and Best Management Practices, Manufacturer's Operating Instructions, Field Manuals, Permits, Calibration Instructions, etc.
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Absolutely! As the population in Hawaii grows, more and more freshwater is used for everyday activities like drinking, taking showers, washing clothes, etc. Because our demands on water continue to grow, but our water supplies do not, everyone should lend a hand to protect and conserve our water resources. The same clean water that you drink is also resource channeled through kitchen, laundry, and bathroom faucets and plumbing. We can no longer take our water for granted. Help us conserve the island's fresh water resource for future generations. Here are a few things you can do to help:
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Don't let the water run while washing hands, shaving, or brushing teeth |
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Take short showers instead of tub baths |
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Wash only full loads of laundry when possible, or adjust the water level for the load |
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Repair or report all water leaks as soon as possible |
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Postpone watering lawns or gardens when the weather forecast calls for rain |
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Monitor lawn or garden watering to ensure water is not wasted on sidewalks or roads |
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When using a hose, control the flow with an automatic shut-off nozzle |
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Find more helpful tips at on the EPA's website at http://www.epa.gov/watersense/water_efficiency/what_you_can_do.html |
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Estimates vary, but each person uses about 80-100 gallons of water per day. Are you surprised that the largest use of household water is to flush the toilet, and after that, to take showers and baths? That is why, in these days of water conservation, we are starting to see toilets and showers that use less water than before. USAG-HI must follow new directives that specify that water faucets, toilets, and showers only allow a certain amount of water flow per minute.
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It's not the little leak that wastes water -- it is the little leak that keeps on leaking that wastes water. And the fact that the leak is so little means that maybe you ignore it. So, how can a little leak turn into a big waste? Many of our toilets have a constant leak -- somewhere around 22 gallons per day. This translates into about 8,000 gallons per year of wasted water, water that could be saved. Or think of a leaky water line coming into your house. If it leaks 1 gallon of water every 10 minutes that means that you are losing (and paying for) 144 gallons per day, or 52,560 gallons per year.
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