PROJECT STAFF:	Elaine Wilson, Environmental Quality Programs Director Vacant, Environmental Specialist
PROJECT PERIOD:	October 1, 2002 to September 30, 2003
FUNDING SOURCES:	U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IX, Pesticide Section

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the Pesticides and Ground Water Protection Program is to coordinate and conduct limited sampling and analysis of tribal ground water sources to determine the absence or presence of potentially leaching pesticides. In addition, the program assists cooperative tribes in writing a tribally and federally approved Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP), which includes elements such as tribal background history, quality assurance, planning and organization, analytical methods used, the usage and plans to address potential contamination.

The program also conducts public outreach to raises awareness among tribal communities on the potential contamination of ground water sources by persistent pesticide residues capable of migrating through multi-layers of sub-surface soils and various geologic strata.

WORKPLAN OBJECTIVES:

• Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) Development: Program staff coordinates with the participating tribe to accomplish the following objectives necessary for the development of a sampling and analysis plan:
• Collect and verify all tribal specific information required by the SAP
• Produce a GIS map comprised of data layer elements indicating ground water sources selected by the tribe
• Ground Water Sampling Event: Following protocols outlined in the SAP, program staff and tribal personnel collect samples for analysis by an EPA-approved analytical laboratory using EPA Methods for residual pesticide contaminants.
• Analysis of Sampling Results: The staff will analyze and interpret laboratory results and provide the participating tribe with a summary report that includes data analysis, identification of problem areas, and follow-up recommendations, if any. The participating tribe will retain the original data and analysis report and a copy will be forwarded to EPA.
• Global Positioning System (GPS): If needed, program staff is able to assist tribal staff in collecting GPS data needed to produce a ground water sampling map which is included in the SAP.

• Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP): Program staff will forward a hardcopy or an electronic SAP template, provided by EPA Quality Assurance Management Section, to tribes planning to conduct sampling activities. The SAP electronic copy is available in Word Perfect or MS Word.
• Sampling Information: Program staff will provide helpful tips and basic information when planning initial pesticide and ground water investigations, such as background information, pesticide inventory, EPA analytical methods, pesticide fate and transport information of pesticides, among other related elements.
• Notification of Training: Program staff will notify interested tribes of upcoming and available pesticide and ground water protection grants, workshops, and trainings.
• Limited Technical Support: Program staff will assist requesting tribes with limited technical support in pesticide and ground water sampling projects, such as staff time and GPS/GIS equipment to help produce the map needed for the SAP.

The Pesticides and Ground Water Working Group Meeting is the forum by which tribal representatives obtain information on pesticides, and ground water protection efforts. It also provides an opportunity for ITCA staff to receive input from tribal representatives on training and support needs. The Pesticides and Ground Water Protection Working Group Meeting is scheduled on an "as needed" basis.

CONTACT INFORMATON:

If you would like to be added to the mailing list, request additional information on the Pesticides and Ground Water Protection Working Group, or on the Pesticides and Ground Water Protection Program, please contact Javier Luera, Environmental Specialist, or Elaine Wilson, Environmental Quality Programs Director. Either person can be reached at (602) 258-4822.