INVAsP seCIVe I S...COVER Invasive species are infiltrating military lands across the country, severely impacting the health and welfare of U.S. military forces, citizens and ecosystems,

USS O’KANE Implements Award-Winning “Complete Ship” ApproachRare Turtles & Backhoes Balance Conflicting Environmental NeedsNaval Vessel Rules for Shipboard Environmental Protection Systems

USS O’KANE Implements Award-Winning “Complete Ship” ApproachRare Turtles & Backhoes Balance Conflicting Environmental NeedsNaval Vessel Rules for Shipboard Environmental Protection Systems

New Report Says Exotic Plants & AnimalsImpair Military Operations

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

New Report Says Exotic Plants & AnimalsImpair Military Operations

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

Military Installations Threatened byMilitary Installations Threatened by

C O V E RInvasive species are infiltrating military lands across the country,severely impacting the health and welfare of U.S. military forces,citizens and ecosystems, according to a new National WildlifeFederation report.

6Military Installations Threatened byInvasive SpeciesNew Report Says Exotic Plants & Animals ImpairMilitary Operations, Put Natural Heritage In Danger

The Navy’s Environmental Magazine • Winter 2006

C H I E F O F N A V A L O P E R A T I O N S

DirectorEnvironmental Readiness DivisionRear Admiral James A. Symonds

C U R R E N T S S T A F F

Managing EditorBruce McCaffrey

Bruce McCaffrey Consulting, [email protected] • 773-376-6200

Art DirectorVictoria Bermel

Distribution ManagerMargaret Anderson

Naval Facilities Engineering Service [email protected] • 904-317-2039

E D I T O R I A L B O A R D

Chief of Naval OperationsEnvironmental Readiness Division

David [email protected] • 703-602-2550

Naval Air Systems CommandAssociate EditorTom Cowherd

[email protected] • 904-317-2037

Naval Facilities Engineering CommandAssociate Editor

Kathi [email protected] • 805-982-4899

Naval Sea Systems CommandDeborah Verderame


Naval Supply Systems CommandRoger Fry


Currents (ISSN 1544-6603) is the official environmental magazine of the U.S. Navy, Chief of NavalOperations Environmental Readiness Division (N45). Participating Commands include the NavalAir Systems Command (NAVAIR), the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), theNaval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP).

This magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Statementsmade in the N45 Outlook column reflect the official environmental policy of the Navy. The contentsin the remainder of the magazine are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S.Government, the Department of Defense, or the United States Navy. Inclusion of any product orservice in any Currents feature article does not constitute an endorsement by the Navy. The Navyencourages all readers to check with the appropriate supervising authority prior to using anyproduct or service mentioned in the magazine.

Currents is published jointly by the Lead Maintenance Technology Center for the Environment(LMTCE) at the Naval Air Depot (NADEP) Jacksonville, FL and the Naval Facilities EngineeringService Center (NFESC) Port Hueneme, CA.

Article submissions should be submitted through the appropriate Command representative using theCurrents article template. The Security and Policy Review (SPR) must be completed by the indi-vidual Commands before Currents management can consider an article for publication. All otherinquiries may be addressed to the management of the magazine.

Browse the Currents archives and subscribe to the magazine at NAVAIR’s environmental web siteat www.enviro-navair.navy.mil. Currents is also available on the Defense Environmental Network& Information eXchange at www.denix.osd.mil through the “Public Menu” and the “Publications>Navy>Currents—The Navy’s Environmental Magazine” link. Please contact Margaret Anderson,Currents’ Distribution Manager, with any changes to mailing addresses or shipping quantities.

F E A T U R E S

16 Controlling Invasive Plant Species at NAS FallonSelective Herbicide Use, Removal & OngoingSurveillance Among Effective Control Methods

32 Forging a Trail Toward HistoryParris Island Clears the Way to National HistoricLandmark

40 USS O’KANE Implements Award-Winning “Complete Ship”ApproachShip Personnel Apply Innovative Techniques toStandard Environmental Guidance

52 Rare Turtles & Backhoes BalanceConflicting Environmental NeedsNAS South Weymouth Conducting SuccessfulSite Remediation While Protecting Rare Species

70 Naval Vessel Rules for ShipboardEnvironmental Protection SystemsEnsuring Navy Ships Are Designed for Affordableand Mission-Compatible EnvironmentalCompliance

D E P A R T M E N T S4 N45 Outlook

15 Best Shot

29 Technology Tips

60 Trends of the Environment

52

40

70

New Director of CNO N45Sees Evolution of Navy’sApproach to EnvironmentalReadiness

Welcome to the winter 2006 issue of Currents. Itook the helm of the Chief of Naval OperationsEnvironmental Readiness Division (CNO N45)in December, relieving Rear Admiral (RDML)

Mark Boensel who took command of Navy RegionSoutheast. RDML Boensel did a lot of good work to maturethe Navy’s understanding of our role as environmental stew-ards, and I plan to carry on his fine efforts. As I continue todigest the many briefings I’ve received and get to know thenames, faces, and acronyms associated with this job, I wantto take this opportunity to greet Currents readers for thefirst time and share some initial thoughts.

By way of introduction, I’m an A-6 Intruder pilot. I served inseveral West Coast squadrons beginning in 1977, and endingwith command of the VA165 “Boomers” in 1994. After oneyear on the staff of the Sixth Fleet in Italy, I attended NavyNuclear Power training in 1996. I was the executive officer(XO) of the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69);commanding officer of the USS NASHVILLE (LPD 13); andfollowing a tour on the staff of U.S. Southern Commanddoing counter-drug work, I took command of the USSRONALD REAGAN (CVN 76). As I contemplated coming toCNO N45 for my first tour in Washington, DC, I reflected onthe difference in how we in the Navy take care of the envi-ronment now as compared to when I was a junior officer. Assome of you may remember, we used to put things over theside with little understanding of the impact that can have.

By the time I became the XO of the EISENHOWER, envi-ronmental responsibility had become an all-hands effort.There has been a tremendous amount of infrastructureadded to the ship just to enable us to manage our waste,and our Sailors work hard separating the waste for proper

disposal and recycling, keeping plastics aboard and meltingthem into pucks, incinerating burnable items, and turningcardboard and paper into a slurry. Hazardous waste is alsoan important issue to all on the ship, and we manage itvery well. It takes a good deal of training and time toaccomplish all this, and we take that responsibility veryseriously. Ashore, I’ve seen the same metamorphosis in ourthinking and our actions with regard to the environment.

Reflecting on these experiences from the operational side, itis clear to me that the Navy has turned the corner frombeing in a “reactive mode” when damage to the environmentoccurs. We are now thinking about and incorporating envi-ronmental planning into our future events (unit leveltraining, range use, exercises) in order to maintain the Fleet’straining opportunities without causing regulatory issues or

4 Currents W I N T E R 2 0 0 6

Environmental Responsibility: An All-Hands Effort

N 4 5 outlook

Rear Admiral James A. Symonds.

damage to the environment. It is interesting for me to cometo the headquarters and learn from the technical expertsabout the genesis of this approach, and to see firsthand howwe’ve responded to government regulation and then held upour end of the deal from a policy perspective.

Though additional priorities will arise as I get up and oper-ating, I already see several initiatives that will likely stay highon the priority list due to their importance to the Fleet. One ofthese, the need to train with active sonar, is an overarchingnecessity. It is clear to all that new, quiet submarines, particu-larly diesel-electric subs, have made anti-submarine warfare(ASW) a much more challenging endeavor. The USSRONALD REAGAN participated in a UNITAS exercise in2004 wherein we had “contact” time against a Peruvian diesel-electric boat, and the ASW forces got a lot of excellenttraining. (Note: UNITAS—the United International Anti-submarine Warfare Exercise—is a yearly, multinational navaldeployment exercise where several U.S. Navy vessels circum-navigate the South American continent and participate inmaneuvers with local navies.) When it comes to protectingthe carrier, and that’s the bottom line, it becomes clear thatpassive sonar is a useful tool, but limited in application. Manycountries now have these boats, and they are a concern-particularly in shallow water. That makes active sonarabsolutely essential for us as we operate in the littorals.However, we’ve learned there are circumstances within whichit is possible for mid-frequency active sonar to have an effecton marine mammals. We understand some, but not all, of thecircumstances, and the Navy is leading the way in fundingresearch to better understand the effects. The Navy iscommitted to doing the right thing for the environment whilemaintaining the crucial availability to train with active sonar.

The Undersea Warfare Training Range (USWTR) is animportant initiative that will make a major difference intraining the operators we depend on to detect quietsubmarines. The opportunity the USWTR will provide foroperators to get immediate feedback, to change parametersand improve procedures, and to hone hand-eye coordina-tion skills on the spot will be critical to our ability to handlethe diesel-electric boat threat. Understanding what therange means to the surrounding environment, includingmarine mammals, fish, and the fishing industry, is a vitalpart of this effort, and we want to get it right.

Another priority will be obtaining the first incidentalharassment authorization for a major exercise, Rim of the

Pacific 2006. This will be precedent setting for us, ensuringthat we understand prior to the exercise what our effect willbe on marine mammals, and quantify that effect for thepermitting process. This cutting-edge approach shouldenable us to accomplish this major exercise while workingclosely with the National Marine Fisheries Service to ensurethat we are good stewards of the environment.

The Maritime Sustainability Executive Steering Group (ESG)headed by Vice Admiral McCarthy (Chief of NavalOperations (OPNAV) N4) is a particularly valuable effort inour proactively planning for the future of ranges and exer-cises, and in engaging Congress and the public on our efforts.RDML Boensel did a great job spearheading the standup ofthis group, which is a cross-functional organization involvingmembers across the OPNAV staff and beyond. In it weconsider all the issues pertaining to our ability to train as wewould fight in the maritime domain. The ESG is palpableevidence of the Navy intertwining environmental concerns ineverything we do. I look forward to working in this group tohelp tackle the issues of planning and outreach.

As we continue our good stewardship efforts, it is veryimportant to tell the story of our environmental successesand hard work. With so much information competing forattention, it’s a fight to get the public’s ear. Our messagemust be timely, consistent, and repeated often to be effec-tive. In this regard, I applaud those of you who read,contribute to, and distribute Currents magazine. The depthof the articles, great photos, and broad range of topics makeit an excellent medium for our environmental message. Iencourage each of you to seek out and take advantage ofopportunities to spread that message to audiences outsidethe Navy and our immediate professional circles.

I have been personally committed to conservation ofresources throughout my life and career, so it is fitting to beintimately involved with the Navy’s efforts to protect theenvironment while defending the country. I believe thiswork is extremely important, both at N45 and amongeveryone in the Navy working hard on environmentalreadiness concerns. To everyone on the Navy environ-mental team, which includes every Sailor and civilian,thank for your hard work and dedication. I look forward tomeeting and working with you. �

Rear Admiral James A. SymondsDirector, Environmental Readiness Division

W I N T E R 2 0 0 6 Currents 5

N 4 5 outlook

invasive species from destroying

America’s wildlife legacy.”

Under Siege: Invasive Species on

Military Bases reports that invasive

species are a widespread and growing

problem for military installations

throughout the country. From exotic

plants overrunning training lands at

Camp Pendleton in California to wild

boars blocking runways at Avon Park

in Florida, the report reveals how

invasive species are more than just a

nuisance on military installations.

“Each of our military installations has

a unique and important mission it is

expected to carry out,” says Peter Boice,

Conservation Team Leader, Office of the

Secretary of Defense. “Invasive species

put unnecessary roadblocks in the way

of achieving this mission, putting undue

strain on America’s defenses.”

The report is the first comprehensive

look at how invasive plants and

animals affect military operations. It

was issued by the NWF in cooperation

with the Department of Defense (DoD).

IInvasive species are infiltrating

military lands across the

country, severely impacting the

health and welfare of U.S. mili-

tary forces, citizens and ecosys-

tems, according to a new National

Wildlife Federation (NWF) report.

“Terrorists or natural disasters jump to

mind when picturing threats to military

readiness and homeland security,”

says Heidi Hirsh, Natural Resource

Specialist at the U.S. Marine Corps

Headquarters in Washington, DC.

“But few people realize that we also

face the threat of nonhuman invaders.

Invasive species are silently becoming

entrenched in our ecosystems and pose

a real threat to military facilities and

readiness across the country.”

“Invasive species are putting America’s

natural heritage in danger,” says

Corry Westbrook, Legislative

Representative for Wildlife Conser-

vation at the NWF. “They are taking

hold and pushing out native plants

and wildlife. We owe it to our

children and grandchildren to stop

New Report Says Exotic Plants & AnimalsImpair Military Operations,

Put Natural Heritage In Danger

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

New Report Says Exotic Plants & AnimalsImpair Military Operations,

Put Natural Heritage In Danger

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

Military Installations Threatened byMilitary Installations Threatened by


Mangrove.


INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

Through 12 case studies, the reportdetails the threats of invasive specieson military lands and how landmanagers are combating theproblem at Marine Corps, Army,Navy and Air Force installationsacross the country. The report alsoserves as a call to action for theDepartment of Defense, otherfederal agencies, Congress, andstate and local governments towork together to develop solu-tions to this threat.

DoD manages more than 400major installations that encom-pass 25 million acres of land. The report illustrates how naturalresources managers at militaryinstallations are challenged notonly to be responsible stewardsof these lands, but also to do soin a way that supports themission of their installation.

As Westbrook points out,“after loss of habitat, invasivespecies are the greatest threatto the survival of nativespecies. Military lands harborover 350 species protected bythe Endangered Species Act.As a result, installations acrossthe country have the addedduty of protecting imperiledplants and wildlife.”

“Our main goal is to providetroops with realistic training sothey are prepared for their

From exotic plants overrunning training lands at Camp Pendleton in California to wild boars blocking runways at Avon Park in Florida, the report reveals how invasive species are more than just a nuisance on military installations.

According to a new NationalWildlife Federation report,invasive species are infiltratingmilitary lands across the country, severely impacting the health and welfare of U.S. military forces, citizens and ecosystems.

More than 1,000 acres of Phragmites impact base security and the ability to fly planes and the safetyof ordnance depots at the Hampton Roads Naval Complex which includes Naval Station Norfolk,

Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Craney Island Fuel Terminal, and Oceana Annex—Dam Neck, VA.Photo by Mary Hollinger, NODC biologist, NOAA

Phragmites at Langley Air Force Base.

missions,” says Hirsh. “Controlling invasive species helps usdo this, and at the same time protects the valuable naturalresources that make America worth defending.”

The report states that invasive species harm installationsin different ways. For example, fast burning exotic plantscan increase the frequency and severity of fires. Tall inva-sive plants can block vision and compromise securityaround sensitive military facilities. More commonly, exoticplant species can render useless large areas of landrequired for training.

Even though many bases share the same problem, there is nocomprehensive invasive species management plan or consis-tent funding to help develop shared solutions. According tothe report, the outcome is that some installations have hadgreat success solving their invasive species problems whileothers are struggling to get a handle on the problem.


KeY FINdINGs of the NWF Invasive Species Report

Through 12 case studies, the NWF report examinesthe impacts of invasive species on military lands

at Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps installa-tions. The report concludes that invasive speciesimpair military operations in the following four ways:

1. Invasive species negate realistic conditions fortraining or testing operations and/or directlylimit training activities. In nine of the 12 casestudies, invasive species directly reduced availabletraining land or the viability of training exercises.

2. Invasive species require the diversion of fundingfrom other natural resource or operation priori-ties. In eight of the 12 case studies, invasivespecies management took money away fromother natural resource or operations funding.

3. Invasive species act as one of the leading causesof habitat destruction and biodiversity loss,which can further degrade and reduce availabletraining land. Nine of the 12 installations had totreat invasive species to protect the habitat andbiodiversity the military is charged withmanaging, including endangered species andtheir habitats.

4. Invasive species pose a security risk and/orcreate potentially life-threatening situations. Atthree of the 12 installations, invasive speciesdirectly threatened the lines of sight of runwaysby pilots.

KeY FINdINGs of the NWF Invasive Species Report

Through 12 case studies, the NWF report examinesthe impacts of invasive species on military lands

at Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps installa-tions. The report concludes that invasive speciesimpair military operations in the following four ways:

1. Invasive species negate realistic conditions fortraining or testing operations and/or directlylimit training activities. In nine of the 12 casestudies, invasive species directly reduced availabletraining land or the viability of training exercises.

2. Invasive species require the diversion of fundingfrom other natural resource or operation priori-ties. In eight of the 12 case studies, invasivespecies management took money away fromother natural resource or operations funding.

3. Invasive species act as one of the leading causesof habitat destruction and biodiversity loss,which can further degrade and reduce availabletraining land. Nine of the 12 installations had totreat invasive species to protect the habitat andbiodiversity the military is charged withmanaging, including endangered species andtheir habitats.

4. Invasive species pose a security risk and/orcreate potentially life-threatening situations. Atthree of the 12 installations, invasive speciesdirectly threatened the lines of sight of runwaysby pilots.

Mangrove is one of “most wanted” invasive species at Marine CorpsBase Hawaii. Mangroves form dense stands, crowd out native plant and animal life. If left unchecked, mangroves infest streams and wetlands and replace the native marsh habitats critical for endangered Hawaiian waterbirds. Mangroves can also limit access to training areas by flooding them.Photo by Dr. James P. McVey, NOAA Sea Grant Program

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

“While some bases have taken itupon themselves to create detailedinvasive species plans, many still dealwith the problem in a reactivemanner,” says Westbrook. “There isno conformity or consistency withwhich they handle the problem.”

Many installations are dealing withmultiple invasive species, requiringthem to prioritize efforts, the reportstates. As a consequence, infestationsof weeds and other pests on a base gounchecked until significant damagehas already occurred.

“We realize that rapid response isperhaps the best way to curb invasivespecies. We would like to do more,”says Boice. “However, instead of

winning this battle, we are at bestkeeping the enemy at bay.”

Managing invasive species after theyhave become established is both atime intensive and costly venture.For example, at the Marine CorpsBase in Hawaii, it took $2.5 millionover 20 years to remove 20 acres ofinvasive mangroves from installationwetlands. Actions to prevent, detect,and control invasive species alsoincrease the burden on soldiers and

divert resources that could be usedfor other programs.

However, lack of resources has forcedsome installations to develop new andcreative solutions. For example, whenthe U.S. Air Force cracked down onherbicide use in 1995, Fairchild AirForce Base in Washington State facedthe task of finding new solutions tomanaging the more than 16 species ofinvasive plants that covered the unde-veloped areas of the 4,500-acre base.

Even though many bases share the same problem, there is no comprehensive invasive species management plan or consistent funding to help develop shared solutions.

SuccessfuL STRATeGIes for Combating Invasive Species

The problems caused by and solutions to invasive species are almostas varied as the plants and animals themselves. However, according

to the NWF report, the installations that are successfully managinginvasive species have three common traits:

1. Natural resource managers strive for rapid response and treatmentas soon as the infestation is discovered.

2. Leadership of the installation is supportive of their natural resourcemanagers and cooperates in the prevention and treatment activitiesfor invasive species.

3. Natural resource managers implement solutions that are “outsidethe box” of traditional management methods.

SuccessfuL STRATeGIes for Combating Invasive Species

The problems caused by and solutions to invasive species are almost asvaried as the plants and animals themselves. However, according to

the NWF report, the installations that are successfully managing invasivespecies have three common traits:

1. Natural resource managers strive for rapid response and treatment assoon as the infestation is discovered.

2. Leadership of the installation is supportive of their natural resourcemanagers and cooperates in the prevention and treatment activitiesfor invasive species.

3. Natural resource managers implement solutions that are “outside thebox” of traditional management methods.

Record-setting rains of the winter of 2005 in Southern California left huge clusters of

giant reeds (Arundo) strewn across Camp Pendleton’s beaches that are

critical for Marine amphibious training.


The answer they came up with—insects. Using insectcontrols have reduced the weed population on the base by30 percent and have resulted in a 50 percent reduction inherbicide use.

“We hope that by drawing attention to the problem andshowing that success is possible, this report will inspireinstallations, landowners, and state and private organiza-tions across the nation to develop their own invasivespecies management solutions,” says Westbrook.


After years of treatment, tamarisk plants are few and far between on the Marine Corps Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms. Tamarisk’s extensive root system posed a real risk to Twentynine Palms’ Surprise Spring aquifer—the sole source for potable water for the installation.Photos by Laura M. Busch

Navy/Marine Corps Invasive Species

CAse STuDIesThe NWF report highlights challenges associated

with the management of invasive species at 12military installations including the following fiveNavy/Marine Corps installations:

1. The Brown Tree Snake & Commander NavalForces Marianna Naval Base Guam.

2. Mangroves & Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

3. Arundo & Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

4. Tamarisk & Marine Corps Ground Combat CenterTwentynine Palms.

5. Phragmites & Hampton Roads Naval Complex.

Navy/Marine Corps Invasive Species

CAse STuDIesThe NWF report highlights challenges associated

with the management of invasive species at 12military installations including the following fiveNavy/Marine Corps installations:

1. The Brown Tree Snake & Commander Naval ForcesMarianna Naval Base Guam.

2. Mangroves & Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

3. Arundo & Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

4. Tamarisk & Marine Corps Ground Combat CenterTwentynine Palms.

5. Phragmites & Hampton Roads Naval Complex.

The Brown Tree Snake & Commander NavalForces Marianna Naval Base GuamThe brown tree snake population in Guam, home toCommander Naval Forces Marianna Naval Base Guam,is estimated at more than two million or approximate-ly 12,000 per square mile. The snake crawls on powerlines and transformers that cause power outages thatcan cost up to $4 million a year. Control and eradica-tion measures are both extremely important as aresurveillance and monitoring. Dogs are used to identifysnakes, especially at seaports and airports. Snaketraps are set around the perimeter of the airfield andcargo yard. Trapping and capture programs are usedaround power plant electricity lines, airports, and else-where and is the primary suppression tool. New eradi-cation techniques are also being developed including“pinkies with parachutes.” A pinkie (dead mouse) isfilled with acetametaphine and dropped in strategiclocations from the air. The pinkie is wearing a tinyparachute that allows it to drift down into trees andother locations where the snake is likely to comeacross it, ingest the poison bait, and die.

Mangroves & Marine Corps Base HawaiiMangrove is one of “most wanted” invasive species atMarine Corps Base Hawaii. Mangroves form dense stands,crowd out native plant and animal life. If left unchecked,mangroves infest streams and wetlands and replace thenative marsh habitats critical for endangered Hawaiianwaterbirds. Mangroves can also limit access to trainingareas by flooding them. Mangrove infestation is managedby an integrated team of natural resources staff,Marines, contractors, and community volunteers whohack, plow, pull and excavate mangroves—removing 20acres of this invasive species from installation wetlandsover the course of 20 years.

Arundo & Marine Corps Base Camp PendletonRecord-setting rains of the winter of 2005 in SouthernCalifornia left huge clusters of giant reeds (Arundo)strewn across Camp Pendleton’s beaches that are criticalfor Marine amphibious training. Riparian habitat is animportant non-vehicular training area for the Marinesand Arundo can impede exercises if it is not controlled.Arundo removal is covered under Camp Pendleton’sRiparian Weed Control Program. Riparian weeds manage-

NAVY/MARINE CORPS INSTALLATION

Photo by Richard B. Mieremet,NOAA OSDIA

Photo by Gordon H. Rodda, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

NAVY/MARINE CORPS INSTALLATION


ment was negotiated in aBiological Opinion whichdetails strategies to con-serve listed species. Theimportance of invasiveweed control and its con-nection to the BiologicalOpinion is why there isadequate and regularfunding to deal withriparian weeds likeArundo, tamarisk, fennel,artichoke thistle, andother invasive species.

Tamarisk & Marine Corps Ground Combat CenterTwentynine PalmsTamarisk’s extensive root system posed a real risk toTwentynine Palms’ Surprise Spring aquifer—the solesource for potable water for the installation. Rough esti-mates on the Western United States indicate Tamarisk canconsume 2.0 to 4.5 million acre-feet of water per year.Tamarisk also increases the salinity of surrounding soilsurfaces making it inhospitable to native plants. Butthanks to years of on-the-ground weed control, tamarisk

plants are few and far between on the installation.Sprayers are contracted to individually treat tamariskplants with a glyphosate mixture (the active ingredi-ent in commercially available weed killers).

Phragmites & Hampton Roads Naval ComplexPhragmites are an aggressive eight- to 16-foot tall,course grass that grows in moist soils of tidal and non-tidal wetlands displacing native vegetation and formingdense stands. More than 1,000 acres of a common reed(Phragmites australis)impact base securityand the ability to flyplanes and the safetyof ordnance depots atthe Hampton RoadsNaval Complex whichincludes Naval StationNorfolk, NavalAmphibious Base LittleCreek, Craney IslandFuel Terminal, andOceana Annex—DamNeck, VA. Phragmitesgrow too close to oper-ational areas—incidental, fast burning fires and poorvisibility are two paramount concerns. Phragmites area big issue for forces who guard the Hampton RoadsNaval Complex because the reeds grow so tall andthick—often edging close to secure areas of the base(such as perimeters and gates)—that security hasbecome an issue. The plan to control Phragmitesincludes identifying all infested sites on a satellite mapand determining which areas can be sprayed by air oron the ground. Spraying herbicide from helicopters isthe best way to knock out this invasive species; howev-er, ground application is necessary to control hard toreach places. After an area is treated, native seeds areplanted where the Phragmites once thrived.

INVASIVE SPECIES CASE STUDIES

Photo by Laura M. Busch

Photo by Robert H. Mohlenbrock,USDA-NRCS Plants Database

Photo by Robert H.Mohlenbrock,USDA-NRCS Plants Database

INVASIVE SPECIES CASE STUDIES

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

INVAsIVe sPeCIeS

The report includes a plan of action to turn back the tideon invasives:

First, prevention must be at the forefront of invasivespecies management plans or policies. Unlike traditionalpollutants, invasive species will not dissipate when newspecies stop being introduced; so stopping additionalintroductions is not enough. Existing populations mustalso be controlled or eradicated.

Second, new management tools must address entire ecosys-tems, not just individual species or pathways of introduc-tion. In addition, it is vital that the environmental impactsof treatment techniques be considered and negative impactsminimized to the greatest extent possible.

Third, action must be taken on several levels. Managementplans, education and outreach, funding, research, andsound policy at all levels of government are ways to addressthe problem on multiple fronts.

“We are at a critical moment in this battle,” says Hirsh.“There is still time to turn the tide before the costs becomeinsurmountable and the problem escalates beyond control.We applaud the DoD and its military personnel for thework they have done so far. We will continue to workclosely with DoD natural resource managers to findsuccessful ways to combat invasive species for the sake ofAmerica’s people and wildlife.” �

Note: This article was substantially derived from “Under Siege:Invasive Species on Military Bases.” Copyright 2005 NationalWildlife Federation. Used by permission.

The brown tree snake population in Guam, home toCommander Naval Forces Marianna Naval Base Guam,is estimated at more than two million or approximately

12,000 per square mile. The snake crawls on power lines and transformers that cause power outages

that can cost up to $4 million a year.Photo by Gordon H. Rodda, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Corry WestbrookNational Wildlife [email protected]

Heidi HirshHeadquarters U.S. Marine Corps703-695-8240, x-3339DSN: 426-8240, [email protected]

C O N T A C T S


ReCOMMeNDATIONSfrom Natural Resource Managers

The following recommendations were derivedfrom the natural resource managers inter-

viewed for the NWF report on invasive species onmilitary installations:

1. Ensure adequate and consistent funding forinvasive species prevention and management.

2. Create working partnerships with neighboringlandowners and jurisdictions.

3. Enact comprehensive legislation addressingprevention, rapid response and education.

ReCOMMeNDATIONSfrom Natural Resource Managers

The following recommendations were derivedfrom the natural resource managers inter-

viewed for the NWF report on invasive species onmilitary installations:

1. Ensure adequate and consistent funding forinvasive species prevention and management.

2. Create working partnerships with neighboringlandowners and jurisdictions.

3. Enact comprehensive legislation addressingprevention, rapid response and education.

I took this picture of an endangered Olive Ridley sea tur-tle during a one-week volunteer stint I did on the tip ofthe Baja California peninsula in Mexico. During the sum-mer, these sea turtles come to Cabo San Lucas, afterswimming the Pacific Ocean, to lay their eggs on thebeach. On average, they leave behind about 100 eggsthe size of golf balls in “nests” two feet deep. But poach-ers sell the eggs (and sometimes the turtles) as aphrodisi-acs in Mexico. I joined other volunteers from theAssociation for the Protection of the Environment and theMarine Turtle in Southern Baja to relocate the eggs to a

nearby sanctuary. Very early each morning, we drovearound on all terrain vehicles looking for nests. Onemorning, we were fortunate to see this “tortuga” leavingbehind a new generation of sea turtles. Six weeks later,the babies hatched and headed instinctively out to sea.

I took this photo just after sunrise with a Canon 300D,6.3 mexapixel, digital camera, using a manual focus anda shutter speed of 1/100. Even at that speed, the turtle’slegs are still slightly blurred. I was using a fairly wide lens(a fixed 17mm 1.8 aperture lens) because I wanted toget close enough to reveal the turtle’s eyes.

Best Sh tsO N EO FM Y

Photo by JO2 Zachary Baddorf � Journalist, USS PELELIU

Submit your own Best Shot to Bruce McCaffrey, Currents’ managing editor at [email protected].

Personnel from Naval AirStation (NAS) Fallon, NVare using a variety ofmethods to control invasiveplant species on base

including the selective use of herbi-cides, removal of the species, andongoing surveillance.

NAS Fallon is located in the highdesert of northern Nevada and theGreat Basin Region. There are over240,000 acres of land on the trainingranges and airfield buffer zone. Thereare four training ranges, an electronicwarfare range, and associated specialuse airspace within the Fallon RangeTraining Complex (FRTC).

The Federal Noxious Weed List identi-fies several plant species that are foundon the FRTC. Last year, personnelfrom the NAS Fallon EnvironmentalDepartment began an invasive weedcontrol program on the Navy-adminis-tered lands. Weeds such as Russianknapweed (Centaurea repens),saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima), andyellow starthistle (Centaurea solsti-tialis) have been spreading onto the

Navy’s rangelands. While it mayrequire a number of years to complete,the goal of the program is tocompletely eradicate these non-nativeweeds from the FRTC.

Russian knapweed is a deep-rooted,perennial weed threatening Nevada’scrop and rangelands. It thrives onrangeland and irrigated ground.Russian knapweed invaded croplandon Navy agricultural leases that wereabandoned for lack of water duringthe drought of the late 1980s andearly 1990s. Russian knapweed preferssites that have higher water levels suchas drainages, irrigated fields, andrunoff areas. Once established, Russianknapweed is extremely droughttolerant. Cattle and sheep will grazethe knapweed in the spring when it isyoung and tender but it can be toxicto horses. When overgrazing occurs,desirable plants become stressed,which gives Russian knapweed acompetitive advantage.

No single control method will resultin the satisfactory control of Russianknapweed. To control the knapweed

on the Navy lands, NAS Fallonnatural resources managementpersonnel collected weed manage-ment information from the Universityof Nevada Cooperative Extension. Acontractor was hired to apply anappropriate herbicide, Picloram(Tordon), to begin the controlprogram on 500 acres of Navy lands.The most effective time to apply theherbicide to the knapweed is duringthe fall after the first frost. The herbi-cide application controlled about 95percent of the Russian knapweed. Thecontract also required that the area berevegetated. Long-term control ofRussian knapweed can be obtainedthrough vigorous competition fromperennial plants. Without plantcompetition Russian knapweedquickly reinvades. In the weed controlcontract, NAS Fallon personnelrequired plants such as crested wheat-grass, thickspike wheatgrass, fourwingsaltbush, and basin wildrye be


ControllingSpeciesat NAS Fallon

Invasive Plant

Selective Herbicide Use, Removal &Ongoing Surveillance Among EffectiveControl Methods

planted on the areas where the knap-weed was being controlled with theherbicide. There are many varieties ofgrasses that can be used in Nevada tosuccessfully compete with Russianknapweed. The precipitation a sitereceives is the single most importantfactor in choosing a plant for revege-tation. The intended use of the area,availability and price of the seed, soiltype, and ease of establishment mustalso be considered.

This year a contractor was hired toremove over 800 saltcedar shrubs inthe weed control program. Saltcedarare invasive, introduced shrubs thatare rapidly spreading to riparian areasin Nevada. The saltcedar is spreadalong the irrigation system that flowsthrough NAS Fallon. The local irriga-tion district uses a foliar spray treat-ment on the leaves of the saltcedar tocontrol it along their 300 miles ofirrigation canals and drains. Theherbicides Arsenal and Rodeo areused by the Irrigation District tocontrol the saltcedar. Saltcedar is adeciduous shrub or small tree thatcan grow to 20 feet in height.

Saltcedar flowers in the spring andthe flowers are small and pink towhite in color. Salt cedar is classifiedas a “phreatophyte” meaning that ituses very large amounts of ground-

water to complete its lifecycle. Thesaltcedar produces concentrations oftoxic levels of salts on the soil surfacebelow the plant, thereby inhibitingthe growth of desirable native plants.To control the saltcedar on Navylands, NAS Fallon personnel hired acontractor to cut down the shrubs.Then an herbicide was applied to thestump. Garlon (Trichlopyr ester) isthe most effective herbicide availablefor the cut stump treatment. Nativewillows and poplar trees wereplanted to replace the non-nativeinvasive saltcedar.

Last spring on two of the base’s agri-cultural lease parcels, natural resourcemanagement personnel found someyellow starthistle. This is the firsttime this weed has been found onNavy lands in Nevada. Yellowstarthistle infests cultivated fields,pastures, and wastelands in the west.There are thousands of acres ofstarthistle in states that surroundNevada. Its roots grow faster anddeeper than those of many native


The Impact of Invasive Species on the Operations atNAS Fallon

the prevention, detection, and control of invasive species costs thousands ofdollars and diverts funding resources that could be used for other

programs. Unless invasive species are controlled when they are first intro-duced, the monetary and opportunity costs become insurmountable. Some ofthe invasive species have large thorns that make the land impassable fortraining exercises. Invasive species also create a large fire hazard in the fallwhen they dry up or go dormant. The native shrubs and grasses in the GreatBasin stay green longer and are spread apart with bare ground in betweenthat reduces the chance of fire spreading. Invasive species have beenspreading in between the native shrubs on NAS Fallon’s rangeland. Thesaltcedar shrubs spread fast in wetlands and take up a lot of water in thisdesert where water is always in short supply.

Saltcedar shrubs are cut andan herbicide is applied to thestump. Willows and poplarsare planted to replace theinvasive saltcedars.

forage plants and shrubs. Yellowstarthistle is palatable to livestock in thespring before the flower head producesspines. The long-term ingestion of thisweed causes the neurological disorder“chewing disease” in horses. There wereonly two small patches totaling 20 plants. The yellow

starthistle plants were pulled out by hand. On largerinfested areas, there are herbicides (such as Transline) thatwill control the yellow starthistle.

In the spring, NAS Fallon personnel will monitor the knap-weed, saltcedar, and starthistle control areas and use herbi-cides for any spot re-treatment that is required to control theinvasive weeds.

With continuing surveillance and the application ofvarious control methods, NAS Fallon personnel willstrive to eradicate federally recognized noxious weedsfrom its land holdings. �

Photos by Gary Cottle.


Gary CottleNaval Air Station Fallon, NV775-426-2956DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

Native Willows and cottonwoods growing along the Navy’s Horse Creek Training Areaabove Dixie Valley.

The Mission of Naval Air Station Fallon, NV

NAS Fallon is home to the Fighting Saints of VFC-13,the Desert Outlaws of Strike Fighter Weapons

Detachment and the Naval Strike Air Warfare Center. NASFallon serves as the Navy’s premier tactical air warfaretraining center. The mission of NAS Fallon is to provide themost realistic integrated air warfare training support avail-able to carrier air wings, Marine air groups, tenantcommands, and individual units participating in trainingevents, including joint and multinational exercises, whileremaining committed to its assigned personnel. NASFallon is known throughout the Navy as the only facility inexistence where an entire carrier air wing can conductcomprehensive training while integrating every element ofthe wing into realistic battle scenarios.

SSSSAAAAIIIILLLLOOOORRRRSSSS AAAANNNNDDDD MMMMAAAARRRRIIIINNNNEEEESSSS in Naval Maintenance

to Attend the EIGHTH ANNUAL FLEET ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION EXCHANGE

9-11 May 2006NAB Little Creek Conference Center (Drexler Manor) • Virginia Beach, VA

Find environmentally friendly solutions to your maintenance challenges.Benefit from hands-on demonstrations of new technologies.

Receive environmental training credits.

For more information contact:Linda Hicks, NAS Oceana Environmental Department: 757-433-3443 • DSN: 433-3443 • [email protected]

or Cindy Webber, NAWS China Lake: 760-939-2060 • DSN: 437-2060 • [email protected]

To register visit www.enviro-navair.navy.mil

WANTED

Thirty winners have beenselected in the Fiscal Year(FY) 2005 Chief of NavalOperations (CNO)Environmental Awards

competition, sponsored by the CNOEnvironmental Readiness Division.The awards will be presented onWednesday, 3 May 2006 inWashington, DC at the U.S. NavyMemorial & Naval Heritage Center.

The annual CNO EnvironmentalAwards program recognizes Navypeople, ships and installations fortheir exceptional environmentalstewardship. The FY 2005 competi-tion categories included naturalresources conservation, culturalresources management, environ-mental quality, pollution prevention,environmental restoration, and envi-ronmental excellence in weaponsystem acquisition.

The winners are:

Natural ResourcesConservation, Small Installation� Naval Air Station Whiting Field

� Navy Information OperationsCommand Sugar Grove

� U.S. Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia

Natural Resources Conservation,Individual or Team� Naval Air Station Jacksonville

Natural Resources Team (Christine M. Bauer, Angela Glass,Will Henry)

� Richard R. Riddle/CommanderNavy Region South

� Jim Swift/Naval Air StationPatuxent River

CulturalResourcesManagement,Installation� Naval Air Station

Patuxent River

� Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake

� U.S. Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan

Environmental Quality,Non-industrial Installation� Commander Navy Region Hawaii

� Naval Station Great Lakes

� Naval Station Norfolk

Environmental Quality,Individual or Team� Naval Air Depot Cherry Point

Environmental Management SystemTeam (Edward Childs, WesleyLamb, James Byrd, Billy Weeks,Andrew Krelie, Michelle Burroughs,Debbie King, Steve Adinolfi)


RDML Symonds Recognizes SuperiorEnvironmental Stewardship

The annual CNO Environmental Awards programrecognizes Navy people, ships and installations for

their exceptional environmental stewardship.

CNO Environmental Award

WinnersNamed for FY 2005

� Lamberto R. Torres/SouthwestRegional Maintenance Center

� United States Naval StationGuantanamo Bay, CubaEnvironmental Quality Team(Frederick W. Burns, Paul H.Schoenfeld, Christopher K.Creighton, Kenneth E. Hendl,John H. Brummett, Jr., Robert W.Bunch)

Environmental Quality,Large Ship � USS GEORGE WASHINGTON

(CVN 73)

� USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75)

� USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74)

Pollution Prevention,Industrial Installation � Commander Fleet Activities

Yokosuka, Japan

� Naval Air Depot North Island

� Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Environmental Restoration,Installation� Naval Air Station Lemoore

� Naval Air Station Whiting Field

� Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Environmental Restoration,Individual or Team� Naval Air Station Pensacola

Environmental Restoration Team(Betsy Voss, Allison Harris, Bill Hill,Tracie Vaught, Greg Wilfley, JoeForan, Greg Campbell, Greg Fraley,Brian Caldwell, Gerry Walker)

� Naval Base Ventura CountyEnvironmental Restoration Team(Steve Granade, Michael Gonzales,Reza Ghanei, Eric Green, MonicaRyan)

� Naval Station Mayport Environ-mental Tier I Partnering Team (Diane Racine, Adrienne Wilson,James Cason, Terry Hansen,Michael Halil, Craig A. Benedikt,Beverly Washington, MichaelAlbert, Mark Peterson)

Environmental Excellence inWeapon System Acquisition,Team � F/A-18E/F & EA-18G Acquisition

Programs Team (Mike Rudy, ErinBeck, John Bogner, M. Duarte,Lori Hales, S. Sofian, R. Viktora,Tom Zucal)

� MH-60R Multi-Mission HelicopterProgram Environmental, Safety, andOccupational Health (ESOH) Team(Mary Hammerer, Jennifer Paulk)

� P-8A Multi-mission MaritimeAircraft (MMA) ESOH Team(Michele Pok, Greg Berry, ThomasDoughty, Flint Webb, Michael Krier,Joseph Krezelak, Tanya Tonnu)

Rear Admiral James A. Symonds,director of the CNO EnvironmentalReadiness Division which administersthe Environmental Awards program,congratulated the winners in a navalmessage saying, “I am proud that youare working hard to achieve superiorenvironmental stewardship whileexecuting our primary mission ofnational defense. Your work has addedto the Navy’s ever-growing record ofaccomplishments, proving yet again thatthe Navy’s environmental programs areamong the finest in the world.”

The winners advanced to theSecretary of the Navy EnvironmentalAwards competition. �


Easter ThompsonChief of Naval Operations Environmental Readiness Division703-604-5426DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

The FY 2005 competition categories included naturalresources conservation, cultural resources management,

environmental quality, pollution prevention,environmental restoration, and environmental

excellence in weapon system acquisition.

The Total Waste Innovations(TWI) Program in opera-tion at the Marine CorpsAir Ground CombatCenter (MCAGCC),

Twentynine Palms, CA, uses bestmanagement practices and technologyinsertion for solid and hazardouswaste and range residue management.

MCAGCC occupies 935 square milesin the southern Mojave Desert. Itsprimary mission is to provide live-firecombined arms training that promotesthe operational readiness of militaryforces. Annually, almost one third ofthe Marine Corps forces participate inthese training exercises, expendingalmost two thirds of the Marine Corps’allotted ammunition allowance. Asecondary mission is to provide facili-ties, services, and support for a popu-lation of more than 24,000 thatincludes tenant organizations, military

personnel, families,and civilian personnel.

Following an integrated reviewof existing waste management practicesin the late 1990s, the Natural Resourcesand Environmental Affairs (NREA)directorate identified significant environ-mental liabilities and financial implica-tions with continued waste management(including solid, hazardous, recyclable,and ordnance/range waste) beingperformed by the various tenant organi-zations onboard the installation and/oroutsourced through the private sector.

As a result, NREA established the TWIsection within NREA. TWI employsmore than 55 appropriated and non-appropriated personnel, and is designedto operate like a commercial enterprisethat is responsible for all waste manage-ment activities aboard MCAGCC. Thestrategic objectives for TWI to accom-plish by 2008 are as follows:

1. Minimize or eliminate allwaste disposal in favor of reuse,recycling, and waste-to-energyprocesses,

2. Expand marketplace reach andrevenue potential for TWI-produced recyclables,

3. Eliminate all safety and environ-mental liabilities associated with waste,

4. Enhance customer service, and

5. Be recognized as the “best prac-tice” for waste management in theU.S. military.

TWI’s Work CentersTo accommodate all waste streamsaboard MCAGCC, TWI is comprisedof the following three primary workcenters:


Improving Waste Management through

Total WasteInnovationsAn Ongoing Success Story at Twentynine Palms

TWI is designed to operate like a commercial enterprise that is responsible for all waste

management activities aboard MCAGCC.

1. The Residential and Commercial RecyclingCenter (RCRC)Prior to the establishment of TWI, the MCAGCC used fiveseparate contracts totaling approximately $750,000 annu-ally to collect and dispose of solid waste. This approachresulted in deficiencies in the solid waste reductionmandates placed on Department of Defense (DoD) instal-lations, limited recycling efforts, and increased liabilitiesresulting from off-site disposal. In response, the RCRCwas established and includes robust collection servicessuch as all commercial dumpsters, family housing, specialcalls and bulk-item pickup, and recyclable materialspickup across MCAGCC. Additionally, the RCRC managesthe Cash-and-Carry and California Redemption ValueCenters and provides sorting, packaging, and selling ofpost-consumer paper,plastic, glass, cardboard,and aluminum cans.

After just four years inoperation, the RCRC hasdecreased landfill disposalof solid waste from over8,000 tons to approxi-mately 6,000 tons peryear, and has increased thevolume of recyclable goodsfrom under 100 tons toover 1,150 tons per year.Annual costs for solidwaste management atMCAGCC are now at orbelow $300,000. Thesavings realized in solidwaste management hasallowed MCAGCC toprogram costs in FiscalYear 2006 to design andconstruct a MaterialRecovery and Recycling

Facility (MRRF). This facilitywill serve as an initial “home-room” for all waste prior todisposal or recycling, to furtherenhance the solid waste managementvision of TWI and meet the strategic objectives for 2008.

2. The Hazardous Waste Recycling Center (HWRC)Prior to establishing TWI, annual hazardous wastemanagement costs aboard MCAGCC exceeded $3.1million. However, the HWRC uses advanced businesspractices to provide full-service hazardous waste manage-ment with disposal only being considered as a last resort.A strong focus of the HWRC resides with on-site manage-ment, recycling, and, if possible, reuse of hazardous waste.


After just four years in operation,the RCRC has increased the volume

of recyclable goods from under 100 tons to over 1,150 tons per year.

Residential recyclables pick-up at MCAGCC.

This includes aerosol can crushing, antifreeze recycling, elec-tronic waste recycling, hydraulic fluid and used oil purifica-tion, and bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated soils.From 2001 to 2003, MCAGCC reduced hazardous wastegeneration from 751 tons in FY 2001 to 540 tons in FY2003, and reduced hazardous waste management costs from$3.1 million in FY 2001 to $1.14million in FY 2003, yielding areduction in costs to MCAGCC of63 percent.

3. Range and IndustrialProcessing Center (RIPC)MCAGCC generates a sizablestream of range residue or “scrap”consisting of spent munitions,small-arms casings, large practiceprojectiles, inert practice bombs,target remnants, tires, woodenpallets, scrap steel, and other oper-ational waste. It is not acceptableto allow this residue to accumulateindefinitely on the ranges or allowgleaned residue containingMaterial Posing a PotentialExplosive Hazard (MPPEH) toleave MCAGCC. Since TWI wasestablished, an integrated team of

specialized personnel has been evaluating andestablishing innovative options for processingrange residue. To date, equipment andprocesses employed at the RIPC include a lightsteel shredder, ordnance deformer andhammermill shredder, aluminum meltingfurnace, mobile hydraulic shear, primaryreduction shredder, tub grinder, and otherancillary support equipment.

In the near future, the RIPC also will implement a rangeclearance program which will be responsible for dailyand systematic range clearance operations in addition tothe normal receipt of operational materials from militaryunits. Since its inception, the RIPC has provided third


A strong focus of theHWRC resides with on-site management,recycling, and reuseof hazardous waste.

Processed aluminum for resale.

Antifreeze recycling at MCAGCC.

party certification and annually sold morethan 2,500 tons of range residue oncethought to contain MPPEH. As a result, theRIPC serves as a benchmark for the MarineCorps in working towards viable range management andsustainability.

4. Administration Support CenterA fourth center, the Administration Support Center,provides management and business reform support forTWI. Contractor support for TWI includes BattelleMemorial Institute and three key small disadvantaged busi-ness concerns—El Adobe Partners, Inc., GNS Partners, andSpecial Technology Solutions.

Looking AheadBy implementing renewed best management principlesand technology insertion in all of its waste managementfunctions, TWI has reused or recycled over 300 differentwaste streams. In just a few years, this has resulted in therecycling of more than 6,000 tons of material thatformerly was disposed of as waste or was unmanaged,and has generated over $663,000 in sales revenue.Further, reuse of scrap equipment and unwanted materialhas yielded savings of $193,570 to individual units andorganizations aboard MCAGCC.

Looking ahead, TWI will continue with its agendafocused on strategic imperatives such as systematic rangeclearance and the construction of a Material Recovery andRecycling Facility, development of innovative solutionsfor addressing existing and new waste streams and, mostimportantly, public outreach to promote the TWI vision

aboard MCAGCC and beyond. The TWI leadership team,together with its network of contractors, is confident thatit can harness and deliver on the objective to become the“best practice” for waste management. �


The RIPC also willimplement a range clearance program

which will be responsible for daily

and systematic rangeclearance operations.

Range scrap designated for clearance.

Leon BowlingEnvironmental Affairs SupervisorMarine Corps Air Ground Combat CenterTwentynine Palms, CA760-830-7396DSN: 230-7396, [email protected]

James SandersonTWI Program ManagerMarine Corps Air Ground Combat CenterTwentynine Palms, CA760-830-3064DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T S

The Waste Reduction AfloatProtects the Seas (WRAPS)and Plastics Removal in theMarine Environment(PRIME) programs

continue to play an essential role in theNavy’s efforts to reducethe amount of plasticand solid wastebrought on boardNavy vessels.

The mission of theseprograms is to reducematerials that generatesolid waste for itemsdestined for Navyships. Pollutionprevention is thepreferred method formanaging waste. Bycontrolling the natureof the items that arebrought on boardships, the Navy is ableto directly influencethe composition of thewaste stream ulti-mately producedduring operations.The Naval InventoryControl Point

(NAVICP) manages the WRAPS/PRIMEprograms. As part of the Naval SupplySystems Command’s (NAVSUP) GlobalIntegrated Supply Chain ManagementProducts and Services, NAVSUP/NAVICP effectively integrates these

programs throughoutthe supply chainfrom acquisitionthrough Fleetoperations.

Initiatives spear-headed by theWRAPS/PRIME programshave contributed to the reduction ofplastic and solid wastes aboard Navyvessels in the following ways:


ReducingMaterialsThat Generate Waste

WRAPS & PRIME Programs ProvidingSolutions at Sea

The USS HARRY S. TRUMAN.U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley

� Packaging specifications forNavy managed items werereviewed by all the Servicesand the result achieved a 55percent reduction of plasticpackaging.

� Suggestions are offered onpersonal carry-on items todeploying crew members.

� Non-plastic alternatives arerecommended in place ofplastic commodities, such aswooden drink stirrers insteadof plastic stirrers.

A New Study Aboard the TRUMANNAVSUP/NAVICP continues tomonitor advancements intechnology and products,especially in the marinebiodegradable plastics arena.And understanding the

current composition of shipboardwaste, as well as its sources, is crit-ical for pursuing effective wastemanagement strategies.

To assess the current status of ship-board waste, NAVSUP/NAVICPwanted to collect data on the compo-sition and sources of on-board waste.As a means to ensure a well-roundedfocus, NAVSUP/NAVICP formed ateam comprised of representativesfrom NAVICP, the U.S. Army SoldierSystems Center, the Naval SeaSystems Command, the NavalSurface Warfare Center, and thecontracting community. The USSHARRY S. TRUMAN was willing toserve as the operational platform forthe study.

While on-board the TRUMAN, theteam intercepted non-hazardous wastefor a 48-hour period. The two-dayperiod started several weeks after theship was at sea to avoid transient


Sailors & Their Personal Choices

the behavior of each individual Sailor can help to reduce the use of plas-tics at sea. The following simple changes can have a significant impact

on the volume of plastic waste on-board ships:

� Keep uniforms in garment bags instead of a plastic bag.

� Use rechargeable batteries.

� Use CD organizing cases instead of plastic jewel cases.

� Use an electric razor or a razor with replaceable blades.

� Take only as much food in the chow line as one can consume.

� Use regular matches.

� Use reusable mugs.

� Share magazine subscriptions (including Currents) with shipmates.

� Have names removed from junk mail lists.

The USS HARRY S. TRUMAN.U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley

effects associated with gettingunderway. The team was stationed atthe various collection points where thesource and weight of the trash wasrecorded. The raw data have beencompiled and analyzed and are beingused to identify and support futureinitiatives for the WRAPS/PRIMEprograms, target source and workloadreductions, while maintaining a posi-tive affect on the environment.

Balancing mission objectives withgood environmental stewardship tokeep the oceans healthy is a difficultchallenge. But the WRAPS/PRIMEprograms have become an integralpart of the solution that the Navyemploys to reduce the risks andnegative effects of solid waste on theenvironment. �


Mary HockenberryNavy Inventory Control Point717-605-4235DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

To assess the currentstatus of shipboard

waste, NAVSUP/NAVICP wanted to

collect data on the composition

and sources of on-board waste. The USS HARRY S. TRUMAN.

LEFT: Paper and food waste poster.

MIDDLE: Metal, glass and “bad for the pulper” foods waste poster.

RIGHT: Empty plastics waste poster.

Helping Sailors Sort Food Service Waste

during this study, the TRUMAN’s Supply Officer (SUPPO) expressed a concernabout the amount of time crew members had to wait in line to sort excess

food service waste. In cooperation with the SUPPO, the team decided todevelop and provide posters to assist with the crew when sorting excess foodservice waste. After several months of the posters being displayed throughoutthe ship, the SUPPO was pleased with the resultant reductions in the timerequired to dispose of excess food service waste. At the urging of the SUPPO,these posters will be made available in the near future to all ships.

S P R I N G 2 0 0 5 Currents 29

NFESC DemonstratesAdvanced Storm Water RunoffTreatment System

Engineers from the Naval Facilities EngineeringService Center (NFESC) have developed and aredemonstrating an innovative filter-adsorption systemthat reduces the concentration of metals, hydrocar-

bons, suspended solids, and other pollutants in storm waterrunoff at the Navy Regional Recycling Center (NRRC) inSan Diego, CA.

Storm water runoff associated with industrial operations atNavy installations typically has elevated metals content, amoderate suspended solids and organic content, and a lownutrient and bacterial content. The metals in storm waterrunoff can be attributed to outdoor metal working processessuch as cutting and grinding, storage of metal objectsoutdoors, and use of metal bearing materials such as corro-sion inhibiting and anti-fouling paints. Organic compoundsin storm water runoff are often due to leaks of motor oil,hydraulic fluid, and antifreeze. Sediment is usually depositedon the watershed by wind or erosion. Dust generated byindustrial processes is another source of fine particles.

In many cases, storm water runoff from Navy industrial sitesis not easily treated by current commercial off-the-shelf(COTS) technology. Most of the COTS storm water treatmenttechnology is designed for municipal applications such astrash, nutrient, and sediment removal. Additionally, moststorm water treatment technology requires large areas of landfor detention basins and similar structures. Space is often at apremium at many Navy sites, especially waterfront locations.

Storm water runoff from Navy industrial sites is a signifi-cant problem. The Navy is under increasing pressure fromregulators and local communities to reduce the amount ofpollutants discharged with storm water into harbors, bays,lakes, and streams. In San Diego, a California RegionalWater Quality Control Board (CRWQCB) Order requiresthe Navy to:

1. Terminate (keep from entering the storm drain system)the first 1/4 inch of runoff,

2. Pass a 96-hour acute toxicity bioassay test, and

3. Reduce the concentration of copper in runoff fromcertain high risk areas to less than 63 micrograms perliter (µg/L) and reduce the concentration of zinc to lessthan 117 grams per liter (g/L).

The goals of this particular project were to demonstrate astorm water runoff treatment technology that:

1. Will allow the Navy to meet all storm water dischargerequirements,

2. Is low cost and easy to install,

3. Requires little land area, and

4. Is inexpensive to maintain.

Several commercial storm water treatment technologies weretested by NFESC in the laboratory and in field demonstra-tions at NRRC to determine if they could reduce copper andzinc concentrations to meet the CRWQBC requirements.None of the systems could meet the CRWQCB requirementswhen the influent metals concentrations were high.

NFESC has developed and tested a storm water runoff treat-ment system that meets the above stated goals. The stormwater treatment technology developed at NFESC is similar toa sand filter. However, instead of using sand as the filtermedium, polluted storm water is treated by flowing therunoff through a bed of specially selected materials. NFESCidentified several industrial commodities that remove copper,zinc, lead, cadmium, and other metals to very low concentra-tions. The chemical process used is adsorption—the adhe-sion of ions or molecules to the surface of a material.

The filter-adsorption media selected for demonstration is alayer of gravel over a layer of bone char over a layer of acti-vated alumina. (Note: Bone char is a black, granular solidobtained by calcining cattle bones. Through the calciningprocess crushed bone is cooked in an oxygen deficientatmosphere, leaving carbon and tri-calcium phosphate asthe residue.) The gravel layer is a coarse filter. The bonechar and activated alumina remove metals both by strainingand adsorption.

A 1/20 scale model of the planned treatment system wasbuilt and used to gather field test data.

Treatment of Storm Water Runoff from Military Industrial Activities

T E C H N O L O G Y tips

30 Currents S P R I N G 2 0 0 5

The model is shown in Figure 1. The unit uses battery-powered motors to pump runoff water from a collectionsump to temporary storage tanks. Water from the storagetanks is then pumped to the treatment system. Automaticwater samplers collect grab and composite samples ofprocess influent and effluent for chemical analyses. (Note: A grab sample is collected at one point in time and repre-sents an instantaneous value of the parameter of interest. A composite sample is collected over a period of time andrepresents an average, or composite, value of the parameter.)

Field testing was performed at NRRC San Diego with theassistance of NRRC personnel. Typical results of field-testingare presented in Table 1. Results show that the treatmentsystem reduced all of the metals listed in Table 1 to belowpermitted limits. In addition, effluent from the treatmentsystem passes the required 96-hour acute toxicity test.

* ND means below the practical detection limit.U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Method 200.7 used in all cases.

Figure 2 illustrates the difference between the influent andeffluent storm water runoff.

While the selection of filter-adsorption materials focused onthe removal of specific dissolved metals, there are limiteddata that indicate the filter-adsorption materials can alsosignificantly reduce the concentration of organic material.In field tests, the filter-adsorption process reduced oil andgrease and total petroleum hydrocarbon to non-detectableconcentrations. However, the influent concentrations ofthese compounds were low during the field tests. It remainsto be determined how well the process works for higherhydrocarbon concentrations.

Funding was obtained from the Environmental SecurityTechnology Certification Program (ESTCP) for a large-scale demonstration of filter-adsorption technology.ESTCP is the Department of Defense’s (DoD) environ-mental technology demonstration and validation program.Its goal is to identify, demonstrate, and transfer technolo-gies that address DoD’s highest priority environmentalrequirements. The program promotes innovative, cost-effective environmental technologies through demonstra-tions at DoD facilities and sites.

The site of the ESTCP demonstration is NRRC San Diego.The previous method of complying with the CRWQCBorder at the NRRC is shown in Figure 3. The first 1/4-inchof rain was pumped from a sump into large tanks. Thecontents of the tanks were periodically transferred to asanitary sewer.

FIGURE 1: Storm Water Treatment Technology Test Stand.

TABLE 1: Metals Removal Effectiveness Results

Parameter Influent Effluent* Permitted Limit(µg/L) (µg/L) (µg/L)

Aluminum 330–860 ND–100 750

Cadmium ND–12 ND 15.9

Chromium ND–18 ND 20

Copper 1,900–4,700 ND–21 64

Iron 3,000–8,200 ND–170 1,000

Lead 150–360 ND 82

Zinc 680–1,700 ND–41 117

FIGURE 2: Influent and Effluent from Treatment System.



NRRC and Commander Naval Region Southwest personnelworked with NFESC to develop a system that will removepollutants to below permitted values, use little land area, andbe easy to maintain. A sketch of the cross section of the filter-adsorption treatment system is shown in Figure 4. The systemconsists of a pre-cast concrete trench filled with layers of filteradsorption media. A network of perforated plastic pipes at thebottom of the trench collects the treated water and conducts itto the main discharge pipe. The discharge pipe leads to anexisting storm drain vault. The treatment system is located ina landscaped area between the edge of a parking lot and theproperty line fence. The parking lot serves as a temporarypond area when the water runoff rate exceeds design capacity.

The installation will treat storm water runoff from approxi-mately four impervious acres. The demonstration installation isdesigned to treat a peak runoff rate of 250 gallons per minute.This capacity will treat all of the runoff from over 90 percent ofthe storms. An image of the installation is shown in Figure 5.

Commander Naval Region Southwest personnel worked withthe CRWQCB San Diego Region to amend the NationalPollutant Discharge Elimination System permit for Naval BaseSan Diego to “allow the Navy to use treatment technologies forstorm water runoff as an alternative to the current requirementof diverting the first 1/4 inch of runoff from high-risk areas atthe Naval Base San Diego.” This permit modification was madeto allow demonstration of the filter trench technology.

The media beds are expected to last a minimum of 15 yearsbefore needing to be replaced. Routine maintenance isexpected to consist of removing and replacing the top inchof gravel on the bed every three to five years. The inletgrating is covered with rubber mats during the dry season.The expended media is expected to pass the CaliforniaToxicity Characteristic Leachate Procedure.

The demonstration unit cost approximately $80,000. Theunit cost is $20,000 per acre of watershed. This cost isabout one-third that of commercially available technologiesmarketed to remove metals from storm water runoff.

The demonstration treatment system is fully instrumentedto collect samples of process influent and effluent for chem-ical analysis and samples of effluent for bioassay tests. Dataon rainfall, process throughput, and other variables are alsocollected. Testing began with the start of the Californiarainy season in the fall of 2005. The results will be analyzedand reported in accordance with the TechnologyAcceptance Reciprocity Partnership, a protocol for stormwater best management practice demonstrations endorsedby California, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey,Pennsylvania, and Virginia. �

If you would like to share your pollution prevention success stories,or would like additional information on the Navy’s technologytransfer program, contact Andrew Drucker at 805-982-1108, DSN: 551-1108 and [email protected].

Gary AnguianoNaval Facilities Engineering Service Center805-982-1302DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

FIGURE 3: Termination and Removal of Storm Water Runoff.

FIGURE 4: Cross-section of Storm Water Runoff Treatment System.

FIGURE 5: Installation at NRRC.


The natural and culturalresources staff at MarineCorps Recruit DepotParris Island, SC hasdeveloped an interpretive

trail system around the Charlesfort-Santa Elena National HistoricLandmark.

Parris Island has been providingnewly trained Marines to the Corpsfor nearly a century. The island’shistorical roots, however, extendmuch deeper than the Marine’s pres-ence. This small island was once atthe heart of global struggles forcontrol of the New World.

Parris Island, in Beaufort County, SC,was chosen as the site to set a footholdin North America by two Europeannations—France and Spain. Situatedat the mouths of the Broad andBeaufort Rivers, the island overlooksPort Royal Sound, described in 1562as one of the “fairest and greatesthavens in the world.” The geographyoffered a strategic advantage. Shipsreturning to Europe from South andCentral America, as well as theCaribbean, passed by the Soundbefore turning east into the Atlantic.Port Royal Sound was a perfectvantage point to place a base toprotect, or harass, rival vessels ladenwith New World wealth.

Intent on securing the route of thetreasure fleets, a Spanish expeditionentered Port Royal Sound in 1561 tocolonize La Punta de Santa Elena.Before establishing their settlement, ahurricane hit, causing the loss of threeships. The survivors returned toHavana, abandoning the attempt.Before Spain could organize anotherexpedition, in 1562, two French shipssailed into Port Royal Sound, also

determined tosecure afoothold in theregion. Within afew weeks theyconstructedCharlesfort, claiming theland for France.

Not only were Spain and France atodds over political control of the NewWorld, but there was also a battleraging for religious dominance, pittingSpanish Roman Catholics againstFrench Protestants. Jean Ribaut, theFrench expedition’s leader, wished notonly to expand his king’s claim in


Forging a Trail Toward

HistoryParris Island Clears the Way to NationalHistoric Landmark

marine Recruit Depot Parris Island’s primary mission is to recruit, train,and support the “making” of basic U.S. Marines for follow-on training

and service in the Corps. The Depot processes all enlisted females recruitednationwide, and all males recruited from east of the Mississippi River. Since1915, well over one million men and women have begun their Marine serviceat Parris Island. Today, nearly 17,000 recruits grad-uate each year after successfully completing an inten-sive 12-week training cycle. Broken into three phases,each portion of training is designed to preparerecruits mentally, physically, and emotionally forservice in the Corps. After graduation, each newMarine receives specialized training elsewhere whichis tailored to his or her occupational path.

The Basics AboutP A R R I S I S L A N D

Winner of 2004 Chief of Naval OperationsEnvironmentalAward

North America, but also to establish arefuge in America for the Huguenotsfleeing religious wars in Europe. Spain,conversely, was strenuously working toensure the Americas was firmly rootedin Catholicism.

Leaving a small garrison at Charlesfort,Ribaut returned to Europe for rein-forcements and supplies. Delayed inEurope by the ongoing warfare, nearlya year passed with no sign of hisreturn. Fearing they had been aban-doned, the starving men of theisolated French outpost took fate intotheir own hands. Building a twenty-ton sloop on Parris Island, they set sailfor France in April 1563. Reduced tocannibalism before reaching home, thesurvivors were finally rescued in theEnglish Channel.

Spain had not taken this Frenchintrusion into La Florida lightly. Afterdecimating Fort Caroline in 1566,a second French colonial attemptfurther south, the Spanish landedon Parris Island determined toensure no further French incur-sions. Erecting their fort over theruins of Charlesfort, the Spanishcolony of Santa Elena was born.

For the next two decades SantaElena was one of Spain’s mostimportant towns in NorthAmerica. For a period, it was eventhe capital of La Florida.Explorations from Santa Elena

Spanish settlements in San Augustineand the Caribbean.

In the late 19th-century, the UnitedStates established a military installa-tion on Parris Island where theFrench and Spanish had placed theirmilitary outposts centuries before.


secured Spain’s domi-nance in much of thesoutheast, and built asystem of economic,political, and religiousalliances with NativeAmericans whichwould ultimatelyeffect the develop-ment of the UnitedStates for centuries.

England emerged inthe race for control ofthe Americas duringthe period of Santa Elena, settling acolony at Roanoke, VA (now NorthCarolina) in 1585. Sir Francis Drakewas then actively seeking out andattacking Spanish settlements alongthe North American coast. Fearingthese English raids, Santa Elena wasabandoned in 1587 in favor of

ABOVE: Ribaut erected carved stone monuments to proclaim the French claim in

North America. The Spanish soon removed them.

BELOW: Period engraving possibly depicting the construction of

Charlesfort in 1562.

Parris Island was chosen asthe site to set a foothold

in North America by two European nations—

France and Spain.

Major European settlementsin North America in the 1560s.

This act would help spare the archaeo-logical remains of Charlesfort andSanta Elena, which was named aNational Historic Landmark in 2001.This designation has not only increasedthe level of protection afforded the site,but it has also boosted support withinthe Marine Corps for developing inter-pretive programs to share this excitingand important part of the Americanpast with the general public.

As part of the Marine Corps’ educa-tional efforts, the natural and culturalresources staff at Parris Island hasworked closely with archaeologistsfrom the South Carolina Institute ofArchaeology and Anthropology(SCIAA) and other researchers todevelop an interpretive trail systemaround the site. Because the path andthe interpretive signage needed tocross through sensitive archaeologicalareas, the trail was designed so therewould be no adverse effect on anyresources. SCIAA archaeologists, whobest know the site’s subsurfacefeatures, were consulted to ensure thatthe path would take visitors through

the most important areas within thesite and that the trail would not inter-fere with archaeological features. Asthe site was once on the edge of a golfcourse, one section of the trail uses apreexisting cart path, and no furtherwork was needed there aside fromplacing appropriate interpretivesignage along the route.

The method chosen for both the trailand signage allowed for all elements tobe placed entirely on the groundsurface. For the trail, this entailedlaying out the path with wood forms tomake a border, similar to techniquesused when pouring concrete. A linerwas placed under this to discourageplant growth, and then filled withgravel and packed. While economical,this method does have its drawbacks.The gravel material packs well butresults in a rough surface for visitors inwheelchairs. If designing a similar trailsystem, the Parris Island natural andcultural resources staff would recom-mend securing the additional fundsneeded to install a more expensive,wheelchair friendly synthetic path

material. Typically made with recycledtires, synthetic paths can be rolled outlike carpet or poured in place. Manyplaygrounds now use this material, butthe added cost is a consideration ifplanning on a tight budget.


The National HistoricLandmark designationhas boosted support within the Marine Corps for developinginterpretive programs to share this exciting and important part of

the American past with the general public.

Interpretive trails allow visitors to explore theCharlesfort-Santa Elena National Historic Landmark.

Photo by Bryan Howard, Parris Island Museum

Trail signs offer background on the rich historyof Parris Island. Brochures are available in

English and Spanish.Photo by Bryan Howard, Parris Island Museum

The interpretive signs along the trail were constructedby securing a large square steel plate to the bottom of atreated 4-by-4 post. Concrete was poured into a tempo-rary wooden form to create the base of the pad. Thepost was placed on this and leveled, and then theremainder of the concrete poured over the plate andaround the post. Each pad, about three feet square,supports one sign. The pad lays entirely on the ground’ssurface, no subsurface preparation was required beyondthe removal of some vegetation. This method waschosen to ensure no archaeological resources would bedisturbed. Should the need ever arise, the entire padwith post can be moved.

Signage along the route highlights topics concerning thesite’s history, including not only life in 16th-centuryFrench and Spanish South Carolina, but also NativeAmerican occupations, and later plantation and post-plantation era components of the site. Brochures inEnglish and Spanish are available, and a newlyconstructed exhibit featuring artifacts from excavationsat the site is on display at the Parris Island Museum.

To expand outreach opportunities, in conjunction withthe Parris Island Historical and Museum Society, awebsite (www.SantaElena.us) has been established forthe Charlesfort-Santa Elena National Landmark. Still inits infancy, the website allows online visitors to explorethe Landmark by viewing the trail signs, following linksto primary documents pertaining to the site, and offeringa selection of artifacts in an online exhibit.

Interpretive programs focusing on the Charlesfort-SantaElena National Historic Landmark are ever expanding.When sufficient funding is secured, in addition to finalscholarly publications, a comprehensive guidebook willbe published for the general public’s enjoyment.Geared towards the layman, this work, incorporatingover a quarter of a century of archaeological research atthe site, will serve as a bridge between the past and thepresent, and help give renewed life to an often over-looked period of American history. �


Getting a Site Listed as a Landmark

the process of getting a site listed as a NationalHistoric Landmark can be a rather lengthy affair. It

requires thorough documentation covering a range oftopics related to the site. Landmark status is a designa-tion bestowed by the Secretary of the Interior, and islimited to nationally significant historic places. Presently,about 2,500 sites have been judged to possess theexceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpretingthe heritage of the United States that is the basis ofreceiving National Historic Landmark status. Coordinationfor consideration of a site goes through the National ParkService. Nomination packages are reviewed by theNational Park System Advisory Board, and if deemedeligible, are forwarded to the Secretary of the Interior forapproval. The Charlesfort-Santa Elena nomination processspanned almost a decade with final approval beinggranted in January 2001.

Spanish majolica bowl,now on display at theParris Island Museum.

Photo by Bryan Howard,Parris Island Museum

Redware vessel made at Santa Elena in the

1580s. The kiln wherethis was fired is the

earliest knownEuropean kiln in the

United States.Photo from South Carolina

Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology

Bryan HowardMarine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, [email protected]

C O N T A C T

Through the Navy’sPollution PreventionEquipment Program(PPEP), there are nowtwo new options available

for the cleaning of small aircraft crit-ical components while complyingwith increasingly strict air qualityregulations. The first unit is a closed-system design which virtually elimi-nates air emissions while allowing theuse of solvents containing relativelyhigh levels of Volatile OrganicCompounds (VOC), while the secondunit utilizes a solvent that is not regu-lated by the U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA) as a VOC(“VOC exempt”).

Our article in the spring 2003 issueof Currents entitled “Closed-LoopParts Washing: Jacksonville Exploresan Environmentally CompliantCleaning Method” discussed Navytesting of a prototype cleaningsystem designed to use high-VOC

solvents. The prototype system,designed by Inland Technology ofTacoma, Washington was designed asa closed unit in order to minimize oreliminate the release of solvent airemissions. The Inland Technologysystem utilizes basic parts washercleaning technology, but is unique inits approach to controlling the releaseof VOCs. The Materials Laboratory atthe Naval Air Depot (NADEP)Jacksonville, FL evaluated this proto-type technology for overall cleaningproficiency as well as compliancewith the requirements of the associ-ated military specification (MIL-PRF-680). The testing at NADEPJacksonville resulted in severalrecommendations concerning theperformance of the prototype unitduring the course of testing, whichInland Technology addressed. Therewere still more suggestions at thecompletion of the evaluation,concerning the cleaning chamberand solvent drainage.

The modified unit is sold currently byInland Technologies as the IT-4500Tek-Jet parts washer unit and hasbeen provided by PPEP to requestingactivities beginning in fiscal year2006. The unit is an attractiveapproach for precision cleaning fortwo primary reasons, includingreduced air emissions and InlandTechnology’s Breakthrough® solvent.State and regional air emission regula-tions are increasingly revising require-ments for solvent cleaning anddegreasing operations to make themmuch more stringent. In someinstances, they require the reductionof emissions from VOCs duringimmersion cleaning or solventdegreasing operations to 50 grams perliter, or require the use of completelyair tight cleaning systems. Navy activi-ties often use MIL-PRF-680 Type IIIsolvent for such operations whichwould be affected by this rule change.Inland Technology’s Breakthrough®

solvent has been found by the NADEPJacksonville Materials Laboratory toprovide cleaning efficiencies of 95percent or better for removal of light


Options for Critical Cleaning of

SmallComponentsPPEP Provides Two New Options

The Inland Technology system utilizes basic parts washer cleaning technology, but is unique in

its approach to controlling the release of VOCs.

contamination. The IT-4500 Tek-Jet parts washeris being utilized to remove simple oils, lubricatingcompounds, and light greases from sensitivecomponents that cannot be exposed to water.Components having heavy contamination, orcontamination due to highly specific processes,are not suitable for use in the Tek-Jet unit.

The second unit is a solvent distillation unit, soldoriginally by System One of Miami FL as theModel 570X-VRH and now by Safety-Kleen ofPlano, TX as the Model 257. Solvent distillation isa viable means of solvent recycling for cleaningapplications where the solvents would not besubject to excessively high levels of contaminants.The distillation process minimizes purchase anddisposal costs of the solvent as well as the volumeand disposal costs of the oily residue. Thecleaning system is intended for use on electric,electronic, and metal components as well as theprecision cleaning of sensitive components.

The System One parts washer is specificallydesigned for the use of MIL-PRF-680 classsolvents. In addition to solvents belonging to thisclass, the parts washer also is designed to usesolvents characterized as VOC-exemptcompounds by the EPA in the Code of FederalRegulations (40 CFR 51.100(s)) due to theirhaving photochemical reactivity below that ofethane. In California, these solvents are character-ized as Group I VOC-exempt compound in accordancewith the South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule102. In general, these solvents are non-aqueous, have slowevaporation rates, and may be either combustible or non-combustible liquids.

The solvent in this category supplied by Safety-KleenCorporation for the System One unit is known as Q-Sol 220®.While considered mildly toxic and combustible, it is not regu-lated as an ozone depleter or Hazardous Air Pollutant, and isspecifically exempt from VOC regulations as described above.

Currently, five of the IT-4500 units and twenty-eight of the570X-VRH cleaning systems have been provided by PPEP.To inquire about obtaining either of these units, pleasecontact your local or regional PPEP coordinator. �


IT-4500 Tek-Jet unit.Photo by Inland Technology

Christopher MahendraNaval Air Systems Command732-323-7131DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

Safety-Kleen Model 257.Photo by System One

The Navy’s PollutionAbatement AshoreProgram (also known as

the “0817 Program”) is collectingFleet operational challenges.

The 0817 program, sponsored by theChief of Naval OperationsEnvironmental Readiness Division andmanaged by the Naval FacilitiesEngineering Command, supports Fleet

Collecting

The 0817 program validates Fleetenvironmental requirements, devel-ops proven environmentally benefi-cial solutions, and facilitates inte-gration of solutions to the Fleet.

Anyone may submit their opera-tional challenges (or needs) forconsideration by the 0817 programas long as the needs are submittedvia the program’s Collaborative

readiness by minimizing operationalrisk, constraints, and costs whileensuring shore-based environmentalstewardship and regulatory compli-ance. The program seeks to accom-plish this mission by investing in inno-vative and cost-effective technologies,processes, materials, and knowledgethat enhance environmental readinessof Naval shore activities and weaponssystem acquisition programs.

1. Range SustainmentIn the area of range sustainment, the 0817 program willinvest in innovations that address environmental impactsand restrictions at Navy ranges to ensure that Naval train-ing ranges and munitions testing/manufacturing rangesare fully available and efficiently utilized. Example projectsinclude range residue management and underwaterUnexploded Ordnance risk assessment.

2. Ship-to-shore InterfaceIn the ship-to-shore interface arena, the 0817 programseeks to develop innovative techniques to manage shiphazardous material/waste offload to shore facilities.Example projects include vertical launch tube water treat-ment and shipboard pipe flushing acid waste treatment.

3. Weapon System MaintenanceThe focus of this thrust area is on the organizational- andintermediate-level Fleet maintainer with the overall objec-

tives of reducing the cost of compliance and increasingFleet readiness. Example projects include F404 engine (F-18 Hornet) drive shaft cleaning using plastic media blast-ing and Freon-alternative fuel cell leak detection methods.

4. Air and Port OperationsIn this area, the 0817 program is interested in the issuespertaining to air and port operations that ensure Fleet readi-ness. Example projects include bird radar imaging for flightoperations and an in-port ballast water treatment system.

5. Regulatory and Base OperationsIn this area, the 0817 program provides cost-effectivemethods for identifying, analyzing, and managing environ-mental constraints related to current and projected regula-tory impacts. Example projects include a joint service sol-vent substitution methodology, improved Best Manage-ment Practices for stormwater runoff, and optimization ofoil-change intervals for non-tactical vehicles.

0817 Program Priority Investment AreasFor the next fiscal years, the 0817 program will make investments in the following areas:

CollectingOperational Challenges

from the Fleetfrom the Fleet

Shoreside Navy R&D Program Puts Innovative Products Into the Hands of the Fleet

Shoreside Navy R&D Program Puts Innovative Products Into the Hands of the Fleet

Web Site (CWS) at www.jcte.jcs.mil/needs/envform.html. An electronic sub-mittal form is available on the CWS to facilitate this process. To receivefunding consideration, needs should be submitted by 15 March each year.

Once a need is submitted, it is assessed, validated, and ranked by Navytechnical experts assembled by program management. The program investsresources in projects that adequately address the subject need(s) andwould support overall environmental readiness of the Fleet and the Navy’sacquisition communities.

To submit a need for consideration about the 0817 program, please visit theprogram’s web site or contact Scott Mauro, the 0817 program manager.

Contact

Scott Mauro

Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center

805-982-4454, DSN: 551-4454

202-685-9324, DSN: 325-9324

[email protected]

U.S. Navy photos by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Andrea Decanini (ABOVE) and Photographer’s Mate Airman Gregory A. Pierot (LEFT).

Submit your own operational challenge to the 0817 program at www.jcte.jcs.mil/needs/envform.html by 15 March.Submit your own operational challenge to the 0817 program at www.jcte.jcs.mil/needs/envform.html by 15 March.

The USS O’KANE (DDG77) has implemented a“complete ship” approachthat makes energy conser-vation and sound environ-

mental management an integral part ofship operations and earned it 2004environmental awards from the Chiefof Naval Operations and the Secretaryof the Navy.

With dedicated handling, usage, andstorage of a wide variety of substances,which if improperly controlled couldpotentially harm the environment,O’KANE has maintained the highestreadiness of environmental controland protection. The USS O’KANE hasadopted various programs and control

measures that ensure the environmentand ship’s company are well protected,including:

1. An Energy ConservationInstruction,

2. An Innovative Solid WasteManagement Program,

3. An Environmental ProtectionCouncil,

4. Use of Automated Fuel, Water, andLiquid Load Reports,

5. A Safe Minimum EquipmentConfiguration,

6. A Potable Water ConservationProgram, and

7. An EfficientClimate ControlProgram.

An EnergyConservationInstructionThe USS O’KANE has included a ship-specific Energy ConservationInstruction in its EngineeringDepartment Organization andRegulations Manual, which is requiredreading for all EngineeringDepartment personnel each quarter.According to Command Master ChiefStephen Mitchell, “A key part ofO’KANE’s achievement has beeneducating and encouraging the entirecrew, not only its engineers, in properenvironmental practices. All O’KANEpersonnel receive EnergyConservation/EnvironmentalAwareness training upon reportingaboard via Command Indoctrination.Semi-annual General Military Training


USS O’KANE Implements Award-Winning

“CompleteShip”Approach

Ship Personnel Apply InnovativeTechniques to Standard EnvironmentalGuidance

Winner of 2004 Chief of NavalOperations &Secretary of the Navy Environmental

Awards

“A key part of O’KANE’s achievement has been educating and encouraging the entire crew, not onlyits engineers, in proper environmental practices.”

—Command Master Chief Stephen Mitchell

is also mandatory for allhands. In addition,conservation remindersfrom Navy/Marine CorpsEnergy EfficiencyProgram are posted inthe Plan of the Day andvarious locationsthroughout the ship. Ourwarriors have pride intheir ship, and that pridetranslates into a concernfor the environment.”

An Innovative SolidWaste ManagementProgramThe USS O’KANE devel-oped an innovative solidwaste management program,requiring three separate waste recep-tacles to hold plastic, metal, andpaper be placed in all compartmentsto aid in the proper sorting of trash.“The program aided in the strictenforcement of U.S. Navy dischargepolicies while at sea conducting localoperations and in support of theglobal war on terrorism. The ship-wide effort ensured the O’KANEmaintained the highest standards ofenvironmental awareness regardlessof operational commitments,” saidChief Engineer Lt. Russell Caldwell.

An Environmental Protection CouncilThe USS O’KANE established anEnvironmental Protection Council,which reviews and maintainsnumerous environmental ship’s bills.To maximize energy savings, O’KANEhas implemented several policies andprocedures in the areas of fuel oilmanagement, potable water manage-ment, climate control, zone inspection,valve maintenance, and darkenship/lighting. Furthermore, accordingto Fuels and Energy ConservationOfficer and Main Propulsion Assistant

Lt. j.g. James Batchelor, energy conser-vation begins with the proper tracking,stowage, transfer, and quality control ofthe nearly 440,000 gallons of F-76 fueloil carried onboard. (Note: F-76 is fueloil suitable for use in both gas turbinesand diesel engines. It has numerousand strict quality requirementsincluding a storage stability test.)“Through efficient management of thefuel oil program, the O’KANE had atotal loss of zero gallons by inventoryand zero gallons due to spills for all ofFY 2004,” said Batchelor.

Use of Automated Fuel, Water,and Liquid Load ReportsThe USS O’KANE uses AutomatedFuel, Water, and Liquid Load Reportsto track all aspects of lube oil usageincluding percentages onboard, expen-ditures, receipts, gains, and losses. Inaddition, the reports are used incompiling Navy Energy Usage ReportSystem databases, ensuring consistentaccountability. According to Batchelor,a history of consistent tracking helpssailors in self-assessing equipmentdegradation, malfunctions, orimproper maintenance procedures. “Ifthe tank level reads low and there has

been no usage, this helps us identifypossible internal leaks in the systemthat are not obvious to watchstandersin the space,” Batchelor explained.

In addition to proper fuel oil handlingtechniques, O’KANE updated its fuelcurves to ensure accurate speed versusfuel consumption tracking. (Note: Fuelcurves are charts that display enginerevolutions per minute versus fuelconsumption and load to maximizeengine performance and fuel economy.In the aviation community, similarcharts are used to maximize fuel conser-vation based on a number of factorsincluding altitude and weight.) Utilizingthe Shipboard Energy ConservationAssistance Program software, O’KANEconducted a series of test runs underdifferent plant configurations, as well asdifferent speeds to collect data andestablish ship-specific fuel consumptionand economical transit speed curves.“These curves show optimum transitspeeds, based on data tables outliningfuel consumption at various speeds andelectrical configurations, and are used inplanning daily ship operations as well astransit tracks,” explained QuartermasterSenior Chief (SW) Herbert Kelton,Assistant Navigator.


The USS O’KANE has implemented a “complete ship” approachthat makes energy conservation and sound environmental management an integral part of ship operations.U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Aaron Ansarov

Subsequently, O’KANE utilizes thetrail shaft plant configuration when-ever feasible (one of four GTMs on-line). According to Batchelor, “By far,trail shaft is the most energy efficientpropulsion configuration at any speedup to 21 knots. At a standard speed of14 knots, we burn 230 gallons lessfuel each hour than if operating withtwo GTMs online.” (Note: Trail shaftis the utilization of a single gasturbine engine driving a singlepropeller shaft.)

A Safe Minimum EquipmentConfigurationMaintaining a safe minimum equip-ment configuration has the dual effectof significantly increasing energyconservation by reducing electricalload and fuel usage while extendingvital equipment life cycles. The USS

maintain a minimum pressure of35 PSIG by using only three of theavailable five seawater servicepumps. This maintains systemintegrity and saves over threebarrels of fuel per day for eachadditional pump not operating.

� Prairie and Masker AirPrairie and masker air are utilizedsparingly to maintain belt and hubcleanliness when not required tacti-cally, therefore eliminating unnec-essary use of bleed air andreducing GTG fuel consumptionby 12 percent.

� Best FuelEquipped with autopilot, “BestFuel” mode is used to minimizerudder movements during inde-pendent steaming, transit tracks,and whenever practical.


“Through efficient management of thefuel oil program, theO’KANE had a totalloss of zero gallons byinventory and zero gallons due to spills for all of FY 2004.”

—Fuels and EnergyConservation Officer and

Main Propulsion Assistant Lt. j.g. James Batchelor

Gas Turbine Systems Specialist (Mechanical) Petty Officer 3rd Class (SW) Michael Malon of the USS O’KANE checks fuel oil sample for sediment and water contamination in accordance with fuel sampling procedures.Photo by CTA2 (SW) Bryan Calderwood

O’KANE has adopted the followingpractices to minimize equipmentconfiguration inefficiencies:

� Only Two of Six Fire PumpsRequiredFire pumps provide water forcombating fires. A minimum of 150pounds per square inch gauge(PSIG) is needed for effective fire-fighting. Through quality preventivemaintenance, O’KANE personnelensure that its pumps operate effi-ciently and use only two of theavailable six fire pumps to maintainthe minimum 150 PSIG required.

� Only Three of Five Sea WaterService Pumps RequiredA seawater service systemprovides cooling water to variouspieces of engineering equipment.O’KANE personnel are able to

� Reduced Auxiliary SteamingIn-port auxiliary steaming hours are greatly reducedthrough coordinated scheduling of all planned main-tenance system checks ship-wide.

� Ship’s Collective Protection SystemVentilation is operated as one zone in port andunderway. This limits ship access to two airlocks,reducing cooling losses associated with using addi-tional hatches.

“As a result of the above initiatives, the necessity for fuel oiltransfers, as well as replenishments is greatly reduced. Thisresults in fewer opportunities for fuel wastage via losses orspills,” explained Caldwell.

A Potable Water Conservation ProgramWith no auxiliary boilers and no requirementfor feed water on O’KANE, the two ReverseOsmosis Desalinization Units (RO Units) arecapable of providing 24,000 gallons of potablewater per day, 75 gallons per person per day for

a crew of 330. With the capability to produce almost 2.75times the amount of water required per person per day, itwould be easy to eliminate the need for a Potable WaterConservation Program. However, O’KANE has seized thisopportunity to establish and maintain standard proceduresto reduce water consumption regardless of quantity avail-able. Low flow showerheads are provided in 100 percentof all showers, and spring-loaded faucets are maintained in100 percent of all crew sinks. Potable water consumptionper person per day is tracked on the Fuel, Water, andLiquid Load Reports, as well as in the Engineering NightOrders to ensure O’KANE’s commitment to water conser-vation is adhered to on a daily basis.


“The O’KANE’s implementation of “a complete ship

approach” has madeenergy conservation

and sound environmental

management an integral part of ship

operations.”—Commanding Officer

William NaultEngineman Petty Officer 2nd Class (SW) Thomas Burns performs

refrigeration tests to ensure the USS O’KANE remains within parameters.Photo by CTA2 (SW) Bryan Calderwood

An Efficient Climate ControlProgramEffective climate control is essential tominimize use of Air Conditioning (A/C)units. A/Cs are one of the ship’s largest

electrical loads, with each one requiringfour barrels of fuel daily when in opera-tion. O’KANE minimizes its A/C load(using only two of four at any giventime) with the help of an efficientClimate Control Program. Thermostats

are set to maintain minimum requiredtemperatures during heating andcooling seasons, and 20 thermostatanti-tampering devices have beenmanufactured and installed to preventmal-adjustment of thermostats in


Gas Turbine Systems Specialist (Mechanical)Fireman Authur Wade checks a valve for ease of rotation in accordance with the

USS O’KANE’s Valve Maintenance Program.Photo by CTA2 (SW) Bryan Calderwood

“As a result of these initiatives, the necessity for fuel oil transfers, as well as replenishments is greatly reduced. This results in fewer opportunitiesfor fuel wastage via losses or spills.”

—Chief Engineer Lt. Russell Caldwell

common spaces. To maximize A/C unitloading and efficiency, O’KANErequested and received electroniccapacity controls for each unit.

Ship-wide quarterly zone inspectionsare conducted onboard the O’KANE,with emphasis placed on identifyingleaking valves, as well as damagedlagging, lighting, and electricalfixtures. According to ExecutiveOfficer Lt. Cmdr. Michael Lockwood,“An incentive is in place to exemptspaces that receive outstanding (nodiscrepancies in the above areas) fromthe next inspection.”

The valve maintenance program,which receives an additional review bythe command during zone inspec-tions, is an effective way to minimizenegative environmental impactsduring daily operations. Using anautomated maintenance schedulingprogram and database, all valves areroutinely inspected with discrepanciesdocumented on standardized formsand tracked until corrected.

In accordance with darken ship andlighting procedures, all lights in

passageways and unused spaces aresecured prior to sunset and remain sountil sunrise. Recharging kits areinstalled in 100 percent of all relayoperated battle lanterns, eliminatingthe need for replacement batteries.O’KANE also has installed 376Silverflux reflectors in lightingfixtures throughout the ship’spassageways and office spaces, maxi-mizing the effectiveness of installedfixtures while eliminating the needfor additional lights.

As a result of these conservation initia-tives, the O’KANE has had no increasein its operating expenses and actuallyachieved substantial cost savings.These initiatives and practices areapplicable to all U.S. Navy ships, espe-cially DDG 51 class ships. Theimprovements, both administrativeand equipment outfitting, are availablethrough instructions, media sources,Engineering Change Proposals (ECP)and approved ship alterations.

According to Commanding OfficerCmdr. William Nault, O’KANE’simplementation of “a complete ship

approach” has made energy conserva-tion and sound environmentalmanagement an integral part of shipoperations. “While O’KANE has notdeveloped any groundbreaking proce-dures to conserve energy, we haveadopted a philosophy that energyconservation is more than slowingdown the ship to save fuel. All handsare encouraged and required to ensureenergy conservation is carried out as apart of our daily routine.”

The USS O’KANE, one of the PacificFleet’s finest guided-missile destroyers,home ported in Pearl Harbor, HI, wasrecently deployed in support ofOperation Enduring Freedom andOperation Iraqi Freedom. �


The guided missile destroyer USS O’KANE (DDG 77).U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 3rd Class Ryan C. McGinley

LTJG Angela AsemotaUSS O’KANE (DDG 77)[email protected]

C O N T A C T

THIS YEAR’S THEME—“NAVY ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND NATURAL RESOURCES:MAKING THE MISSION POSSIBLE”

T he first annual 2006 Navy Environmental

Planning and Natural Resources Training

Symposium, sponsored by the Chief of Naval

Operations Environmental Readiness Division (N45), will

be held 1–4 May 2006 at the Cavalier Hotel, oceanfront

at 42nd Street, Virginia Beach, VA. The theme of this

conference is “Navy Environmental Planning and Natural

Resources: Making the Mission Possible.”

Representatives from Navy commands involved with

environmental planning and natural resources issues are

invited to attend although attendance is limited to

government employees and contractors with current

Navy contracts.

The training symposium will provide Navy civilian and military

personnel a forum to discuss recent policy developments and issues

pertaining to Navy environmental

planning, natural resources, marine

mammals, research and development

and testing and evaluation as well as

raise issues and share success stories

and lessons learned. As training

symposium details are confirmed, a

final agenda will be posted on-line at

www.navyseic.com/conference. To

access this website, type “enviro” for

the username and “Navy2006!” for the password.

A no-host reception will be held the evening of 1 May and a keynote

speaker luncheon is planned for 3 May 2006. The cost for these events

will be $20.00 and $25.00 respectively. You may register for the

training symposium on-line at www.navyseic.com/conference or by

faxing or e-mailing a completed training symposium registration form

to Robyn Sweet of SAIC (703-416-1178 or [email protected]).

&ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNINGNATURAL RESOURCES

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNINGNATURAL RESOURCES

Training Symposium Set for 1–4 May 2006

EA-6B Prowler.U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Lee O. Tucker

The Fire Scout Vertical Takeoff and Landing Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.Photo courtesy of Northrop Grumman Corporation

Desert tortoise.Photo by Beth Jackson,

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The deadline for registration is 21 April

2006. The preferred method for registra-

tion is online. Registration after the 21

April deadline must be done onsite at

the training symposium.

Attendees are responsible for arranging

their own hotel accommodations. A

block of rooms has been reserved for

symposium attendees at the govern-

ment per diem rate of $84/night for

ocean view rooms and $104/night for oceanfront

rooms. Hotel reservations must be made by 3 April

2006 to ensure the symposium room rate. Make your

reservation by contacting the hotel at 800-446-8199

or 757-425-8555 from 0700–2300 Eastern Time and

state that you are attending the “Navy EPNR Training

Symposium.” You are encouraged to make your

reservations early.

CONTACTS

Karen Foskey

Chief of Naval Operations

Environmental Readiness Division

703-602-2859

DSN: 662-2859

[email protected]

Gloria Kupstas

Chief of Naval Operations

Environmental Readiness Division

703-604-5431

DSN: 664-5431

[email protected]

USS CARL VINSON.U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Mark A. Leonesio

Hawaiian moorhen.Photo by John and Karen Hollingsworth,U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Swamp Pink.Photo by Asheville Field Office,

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service


Naval Air Depot (NADEP)Cherry Point, NCneeded to replace an oil(VV-C-850) that wasused extensively in

machining applications but no longeravailable. And the alternative theyfound is biodegradable.

Metal working fluids (MWFs), alsocalled machining fluids, cutting fluids,and cutting oils are designed to coolthe components, to remove chips fromthe cutting zone, to lubricate, and toinhibit corrosion during a givenmachining application. There are fourclasses of MWFs: straight oils, solubleoils, semi synthetic oils, and syntheticoils. Straight oils, or neat oils, are notdesigned to be diluted with water.Straight oils are normally used forheavy duty machining operations. Theother three classes of MWFs are desig-nated water-soluble fluids or coolants.The water-soluble MWFs mainlycontain oil, water, emulsifiers, a

biofouling resistance package, andcorrosion inhibitors.

Table 1 shows the characteristic ofMWFs. The classes of water solubleMWFs are distinguished by the quan-tity of oil contained in the product.This oil includes severely hydrotreatedpetroleum oils, vegetable oils, animaloils, marine oils, and seed oils that areused singly or in combination. Solubleoils have a 30–85 percent oil content,semi-synthetic oils have a 10–30percent oil content, and synthetic oilshave a 0–10 percent oil content.Normally, the higher the oil contentsof the MWF, the better the lubricitythus providing a greater capacity toreduce friction. However, the down-side of using this material is that itproduces less cooling capacity duringmachining operations. MWFs thatcontain less oil provide a cleaner workenvironment and reduce the frequencyto replace the MWF. However, thereplacement frequency is dependent

upon workload throughput. Sincestraight oils do not contain water, it israre to encounter biofouling problems,and thus the machine sump does notrequire replacement of MWFs as oftenas the water-soluble MWFs.

Petroleum oil is considered ahazardous material for its possiblecancer producing agent(s). Water-soluble MWFs contain alkanolaminesfor corrosion protection of the compo-nent being processed. However, alka-nolamines are one of the ingredientsthat Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration officials recommendavoiding because of concern overadverse liver and kidney organ effectsin animals. Natural or syntheticsodium sulphonate, another commoningredient found in water-solubleMWFs, acts as a corrosion inhibitorand emulsifier.

There are about 160 machines atNADEP Cherry Point that operatewith MWFs that are water soluble,straight oils, tapping fluids, or water.Personnel from the MaterialsEngineering Division and theIndustrial Engineering Division atNADEP Cherry Point prototyped a

Cherry Point Prototypes AlternativeMetal Working Fluid

TABLE 1: Characteristics of Metal Working Fluids

Classes Oil in Concentrate (in percent) Lubricity Cooling Replacement FrequencyStraight Oil 100 N/A

Soluble Oil 30–85

Semi-Synthetic 10–30

Synthetic 0–10

In Search of Environmentally Friendly

Cutting Oil


straight oil called “PanTerra MMEP”as a replacement for VV-C-850straight oil. The urgency to find areplacement cutting oil was due tothe fact that VV-C-850 is no longermanufactured. PanTerra MMEP is aseed oil based straight cutting oilcontaining molybdenum disulfide asan insoluble compound. Seed oil

including canola, sunflower, orsoybean oil is used in lieu of petro-leum or petroleum-derivedcompounds in the formulation.PanTerra MMEP does not containchlorine, sulfur, active sulfur, orpetroleum. Since all the ingredients ofPanTerra MMEP are manufacturedfrom sources in the United States, it

does not depend on the export ofmaterials from foreign markets. It isalso a biodegradable and environ-mentally friendly product.Molybdenum disulfide, known as adry lubricant, imparts lubricity tomachine tools that work under highfriction and heat where most otherlubricants would breakdown.

A machinist is processing a component using PanTerra MMEP in the machine

that provided a better tool life.Photo by Dykie Whitfield

TABLE 2: Physical Property of Cutting Oils

PanTerra MMEP VV-C-850Appearance Dark Gray Dark Amber

Specific Gravity (@ 60˚F) 0.93 0.92

Viscosity (in Centistokes @ 40˚C) 38-41 Unknown

Flash Point 640˚F (338˚C) 390˚F (199˚C)

Chlorine No No

Sulfur No Yes

Active Sulfur No No

Petroleum No Yes


The product usage was critiqued andthe following observations were noted:

� The flashpoints of straight oils usedin the past were 350 degreesFahrenheit (˚F) to 400˚F. PanTerraMMEP has a high flash point of 640˚F. Because of its high flash point,PanTerra MMEP provided betterheat dissipation and produced lesssmoke when machining.

� The graphite like material from themolybdenum disulfide sourceallowed metals to be processedrequiring less friction and lesstorque compared to VV-C-850.

� PanTerra MMEP provided bettertool life compared to VV-C-850.

� PanTerra MMEP can be used as atapping oil in addition to heavyduty machining operations.

� PanTerra MMEP provides a saferand healthier environment due tothe use of less hazardous ingredientsduring the manufacturing process.

� Shop personnel promoted PanTerraMMEP as an excellent tapping oiland a better performer than anyother straight oil used in the past atNADEP Cherry Point.

So the search is over. PanTerra MMEP,an environmentally friendly product,functions exceptionally well as analternative to VV-C-850. �

A machinist is applying PanTerra MMEP to a part as a tapping fluid using a brush application.

Photo by Dykie Whitfield

Keiko FrisbyNaval Air Depot Cherry Point, NC252-464-5259DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

Seed oil including canola, sunflower, or soybean oil is used in lieu of petroleum or

petroleum-derived compounds in the formulation.

As you might imagine, it’s quite a challenge to keep the Currents

distribution current. Many of our military subscribers move from one

assignment to another almost as often as we publish the magazine.

So if you have moved recently, would like to be removed from our

distribution, or want more copies of the magazine, please

contact Margaret Anderson our Distribution Manager

at 904-317-2039 or [email protected].

Have you moved? Do you still want to receive

Currents? We need to know.

Have you

MOVED?We need to know!

As always, you can subscribe to the magazine at the

Naval Air Systems Command’s environmental web

site at www.enviro-navair.navy.mil and browse our

archives there. Currents is also available on the Defense Environmental Network

& Information eXchange at www.denix.osd.mil through the “Public Menu” and

the “Publications>Navy>Currents—The Navy’s Environmental Magazine” link.


Despite their brilliant coloration, box turtles are actuallyextremely hard to find when they hide in vegetation.Photo by ENSR


RareTurtles&Backhoes

Balance Conflicting Environmental Needs

he presence of rare and endangeredturtles at the former Naval Air Station(NAS) South Weymouth, MA has

changed the complexion of the closureprocess at this facility, and has resultedin public and regulatory confidence inthe Navy’s ability to balance environ-mental cleanup and natural resourceconservation needs.

NAS South WeymouthConducting Successful Site Remediation WhileProtecting Rare Species

T

For much of the past decade,the Naval Facilities EngineeringCommand, Engineering FieldActivity Northeast (NAVFACEFANE) has been leading thelargest rare and endangeredturtle monitoring program inthe Commonwealth ofMassachusetts. The primaryfocus of this program has beento provide the Navy with infor-mation needed to implement abroad variety of intrusive inves-tigative activities and remedialresponse actions while mini-mizing impacts to rare turtles.

The presence of two rareturtle species at the formerNAS South Weymouth haschanged the complexion of theComprehensive EnvironmentalResponse, Comprehensive, andLiability Act (CERCLA) closureprocess at this facility, and hasresulted in the successful resolutionof two potentially conflicting environ-

This program has resulted in thegeneration of substantial baselineinformation regarding spotted turtle(Clemmys guttata) and eastern boxturtle (Terrapene carolina) ecologicalrequirements. This information has


The Navy was able to sequence environmental investigationsand remedial activities in a manner that minimizes impacts to rare turtles at the former NAS South Weymouth.

Despite their brilliant yellow polka dots, spotted turtles can be surprisingly hard to find in the dappled sunlight of their native wetlands.

Photo by ENSR

mental needs: the requirement toavoid natural resource injury to theserare and endangered species and theneed to remediate CERCLA sites inaccordance with state and Federalstatutory requirements.

LEFT: Biological data are collected in order to document the growth rate of these rare turtles.

RIGHT: Hatchling spotted turtle.Photos by ENSR

Secretive spotted turtles are occasionally hand-captured near the water’s surface.

Photos by ENSR

proven to be useful not only to theNavy, but also has provided the statenatural resource trustees with some ofthe most robust turtle monitoring datasets available in Massachusetts.

The former NAS South Weymouthturtle investigation program was initi-ated during the course of the CERCLARemedial Investigation field program.While conducting surface water andsediment sampling at a former FireFighting Training Area, field personnelfrom ENSR International (the Navy’senvironmental contractor) observedsmall populations of the spotted turtleand the eastern box turtle, both ofwhich are state-listed Species ofSpecial Concern in Massachusetts andare afforded protection under theMassachusetts Wetlands Protection Actand the Massachusetts EndangeredSpecies Act. In response to these find-ings, the Navy initiated a focused fieldeffort to gather information about the

extent of the turtle populations,habitat utilization, and distribution.

The turtle investigation program hasincluded:

1. On-site, real time monitoring priorto and during implementation ofNavy remedial response actions,

2. Meander surveys of suitable turtlehabitat,

3. An extensive trapping program,

4. Nesting surveys,

5. A substantial radiotelemetrycomponent, and

6. A variety of other data collectionactivities.


Spotted turtle.NOAA National Estuarine Research Reserve Collection

The home range of these turtles overlaps withnumerous Navy environmental sites.

Baseline data compiled over this multi-year investigation provided the Navywith critical information needed tosequence environmental investigationsand remedial activities in a mannerthat minimizes impacts to rare turtlesat the former NAS South Weymouth.

The TurtlesThe spotted turtle is a small aquatic/wetland turtle species. It prefers small,unpolluted shallow bodies of water,such as marshy meadows, red mapleswamps, woodland vernal pools, bogs,small ponds, brooks and ditches. Boxturtles are primarily terrestrial turtles

typically found in open woodlandareas, moist scrub-shrub thickets, andalong small stream corridors. Spottedturtles and box turtles in Massachusettstypically nest in June within scrub-shrub/open meadow habitats withinterspersed patches of bare, well-drained sandy soils.

Both spotted and box turtles arebecoming less common inMassachusetts due to a variety offactors, including the over collectionof adult turtles, predation of newlyconstructed nests, and predation ofturtles in the hatchling through juve-nile stages. Perhaps the most critical

concern among biologists studyingthese long-lived species is related tohabitat destruction and roadmortality. Investigation and remedia-tion of hazardous waste sites at theformer NAS South Weymouth couldseverely impede annual movementsof these sensitive species or destroycritical terrestrial habitats if not care-fully planned.

Cleanup ActivitiesSince the turtle monitoring programbegan at the former NAS SouthWeymouth, more than 75 spottedturtles and 35 box turtles have been


Navy turtle biologists have coordinated with remedial engineers to ensure that the CERCLA program objectives have been met, while turtle foraging, nesting, and over-wintering habitats have been preserved.

This turtle has made itself a “form”—a grassy structure designed to camouflage the animal and provide a cool shelter on a hot summer day.Photo by ENSR

engineers to ensure that the CERCLAprogram objectives have been met,while turtle foraging, nesting, and over-wintering habitats have beenpreserved.

At each of these sites, careful coordina-tion of the response actions and thenatural resource monitoring activitiesresulted in successful site closurewithout any significant cost orschedule impacts, and equally asimportant, without any adverseimpacts to the rare turtle species onand in the immediate vicinity of thework areas.

FindingsIn addition to the hazardous sitemanagement benefits, considerableecological data have been gatheredthrough this program. These datahave been compared and contrastedwith information available in the liter-ature and have provided the stateNatural Heritage and EndangeredSpecies Program with valuable base-line information regarding state-specific turtle habitat requirements,spatial and temporal movement, andseasonal behavior.

Most of the major spotted turtle andbox turtle movements occurred duringthe spring months, with a period ofrelative inactivity in the summer,followed by a resurgence of movementin the fall. These time periods gener-ally correspond to courtship activityand mating time frames in the springand pre-hibernation activity in the fallas turtles traveled to their hibernacula.


observed on nearly 20 environmentalsites. An additional dozen sites fallwithin the estimated home range forthe spotted and box turtle populations.

Several recent environmental cleanupprograms at the former NAS SouthWeymouth have required considerablecoordination between the Navy’s turtleecologists and remedial engineers:

Contaminated Soil ExcavationAt a former antenna farm, the Navyexcavated thousands of yards of soilcontaining polychlorinated biphenylsin the middle of an area providingcritical habitat to both rare turtlespecies. Throughout much of theprogram, up to six individual boxturtles were present within 10 to 20meters of the area where backhoeswere actively working. Each of theseturtles was previously radio-tagged inanticipation of this remedial responseaction, and were routinely monitoredprior to, during, and immediatelyfollowing construction.

Focused Field ProgramA focused field program wasconducted in 2004 to ensure that theNavy could successfully close a majorlandfill in accordance with the

EFANE environmental engineer Lisa Yeutter with an adult box turtle.

Photo by EFANE

CERCLA Record of Decision. Thisprogram included capturingnumerous spotted and box turtlesusing upland and wetland habitatswithin and adjacent to the uncon-trolled landfill, outfitting them withradio-transmitters, and releasing themat the point of capture or relocatingthem outside of the constructionzone. The Navy turtle ecologistsprovided a substantial level of over-sight during construction activities.The construction personnel at thiscomplex site were all briefed on theturtles prior to initiation of construc-tion. In fact, on several occasionsNavy biologists received calls fromequipment operators indicating thatthey had located a rare turtle and hadset it aside in a pre-determined secureturtle enclosure.

Preserving Turtle Habitat NearFire Fighting Training SiteThe Former Base’s fire fighting trainingarea is located in prime turtle habitat—ENSR International ecologists foundmore than 100 individual animalswithin a few hundred meters of thissite. Throughout the investigative andremedial program, Navy turtle biolo-gists have coordinated with remedial

This male box turtle iscuriously exploring his

new situation. Note theantenna extending from the rear portion of his shell.Photo by ENSR

Movement and activity in spottedturtles at former NAS SouthWeymouth peaked in May and June,and declined throughout the summermonths, when the turtles aestivate (aprocess whereby the turtles stopmoving and slow their metabolism ina state of semi-hibernation in responseto dry, hot weather conditions).

Both spotted turtles and box turtlesused a variety of wetland habitatsincluding emergent, scrub-shrub, andforested wetlands as well as openwater features (i.e., standing pools andflowing riverine systems). Aestivationhabitats for spotted turtles are in drywetland areas under sphagnum mossin scrub-shrub wetlands, undertussocks in emergent wetlands, and in

dry upland habitats dominated withgrasses and/or shrubs. Box turtles alsoexhibited distinct seasonal shifts inhabitat use, however, many of the boxturtles did not truly aestivate.Individuals found in forested uplandhabitats during hot, humid summerdays are often visibly active.Individuals in open areas (i.e., openfield or scrub-shrub habitats) will typi-cally remain inactive during the heatof the day, but often move in theevening or early morning hours.

Nesting surveys identified a number ofareas currently being used as nestinghabitat for spotted turtles and boxturtles. In addition, this program iden-tified a number of critical hibernatinghabitats, including spotted turtle

communal hibernacula that wereroutinely used by up to 14 turtles forover-wintering. Box turtles were oftenobserved hibernating in clusterswithin forested upland areas nearforested wetlands. For instance, up toseven box turtles were routinelyobserved hibernating within a 0.2 acrearea of forested uplands.

The home range of both the spottedand box turtles at the former NASSouth Weymouth were found to beconsiderably larger than literaturevalues would indicate. For instance,one enterprising female box turtle,which was originally captured at theeastern end of the base in June of2000, was found nesting in a centralportion of the base in June of 2003,


The Navy’s program has demonstrated that DoD activities and rare species can exist in harmony with one another.

The red eye is a clear indicator that this radio-tagged turtle is a male. (Females typically have brown eyes.)

Photo by ENSR

and by 29 July 2003 she had returnedto her eastern quarters. The round-tripdistance traveled by this adventurousreptile was approximately 4,000 linearmeters or 2.5 miles.

ConclusionsSpotted and box turtles are becomingless common throughout their rangein Massachusetts due to over collec-tion, predation, habitat destruction,and road mortality. Future alterationsto the landscape on the former NASSouth Weymouth base, as well asremediation of hazardous waste sites,if not carefully planned, could severelyimpede annual movements of state-listed turtle species or destroy criticalterrestrial habitats. In addition, habitatsuccession could be a major naturalprocess destroying prime habitat.Since vegetation management associ-ated with general airport maintenancehas ceased on the former NAS SouthWeymouth base, natural successionmay have a significant impact on state-listed turtle populations in the future.

It appears that some degree of annualrecruitment into the spotted turtle

fact—box turtle hatchlings are diffi-cult to find, the lack of sub-adult orhatchling box turtles suggests thatthere is little or no recruitment ofsub-adults into the population. Allbox turtles observed at the base wereestimated to be at least 18 years old,and potentially far older.

Despite the somewhat bleak outlookfor these turtles in much of theirnatural range, the Navy’s program hasdemonstrated that Department ofDefense activities and rare species canexist in harmony with one another—the total number of individual boxand spotted turtles observed in thisstudy represents the largest populationknown in Massachusetts. The use ofradiotelemetry technologies and earth-moving backhoes in a cooperativeeffort has resulted in a better environ-ment for all, has generated consider-able good will within the local citizenenvironmental community, hasresulted in strong working relation-ships among Navy biologists andnatural resource trustees, and hasallowed the Navy to meet CERCLAcleanup up goals without any substan-tial cost or schedule impacts. �


Lisa YeutterEngineering Field Activity Northeast610-595-0567, x-177DSN: 443-0567, [email protected]

C O N T A C T

population is occurring through newhatchlings from on-site nesting successor through introduction by transientindividuals from neighboring popula-tions. Individual spotted turtles havebeen documented from withindifferent age classes (i.e., hatchlings,sub-adults, and adults). As a result,the Navy’s program has documentedone of the more secure populations ofspotted turtles in Massachusetts.

Although box turtles are thought tobe common throughout much oftheir range, Massachusettsapproaches the northern limits oftheir range. Observation of nestingbox turtles proves that successfulbreeding is indeed occurring at theformer NAS South Weymouth.However, with the exception ofsuspected hatching at two nests in2003 (no juveniles were observed),recruitment has not been directlyobserved, and unlike the spottedturtle population at former NASSouth Weymouth, there have been nobox turtle hatchling or sub-adultobservations. If this observationrepresents actual environmentalconditions and is not a sampling arti-

Female box turtle with an antenna.

Photo by ENSR

The field technician has used the aluminum radio antenna to help locate this secretive animal.

Photo by ENSR


The Joint Service P2 TechnicalLibraryWhere to Go For Meaningful EnvironmentalResources

Over the past decade, the Joint Service Pollution Prevention(P2) Technical Library (at http://p2library.nfesc.navy.mil/)has become an essential resource for meaningful informa-tion about environmental issues essential to Department ofDefense (DoD) missions and operations.

The Joint Service P2 Technical Library is an inter-Service and inter-agency cooperative effort funded bythe Navy, the other members of the Joint Services,the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), and the UnitedStates Coast Guard (USCG). The Library providesaccess to shared DoD environmental resources to:

1. Minimize the duplication of effort,

2. Facilitate the effective use of available funding, and

3. Make possible the proactive implementation ofenvironmental initiatives.

The Joint Service P2 Technical Library’s website isdesigned to provide easy access to a broad range ofresources about environmental issues that affect day-to-dayoperations and current mission readiness. The Library’swebsite also provides valuable information about emergingenvironmental issues that will impact future missions andoperations. Over the years, the Joint Service P2 TechnicalLibrary has become one of DoD’s primary resources for:

� Sustainable Development,

� Environmental Management Systems (EMS),

� Pollution Prevention,

� Green Procurement,

� Technology Information/Transfer, and

� Other important and emerging environmental issues.

The Joint Service P2 Technical Library offers several featuresthat can help Currents readers to keep informed about newand important environmental issues:

E-Newsletter and Periodical WeblinksProvides weblinks to pertinent newsletters and periodicalsthat can provide new and updated information about issuesof importance to environmental professionals.

Emerging Environmental IssuesHighlights emerging issues that may impact environmentaloperations and missions at Joint Service installations andother federal facilities. Some of the recent emerging envi-ronmental issues topics include:

� Impacts of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 on federalfacility operations,

� The use of global positioning systems and geographicinformation system applications to enhance water,wastewater, and stormwater management,

� The Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tooland the Environmental Benefits Calculator, and

� An EMS Partnership Success Story—The VirginiaRegional Environmental Management System.

Featured Resource of the WeekOffers information about, and a direct link to, a newresource that provides pertinent and timely informationabout an issue of importance to Joint Service environ-mental professionals.

Green ProcurementThe Joint Service P2 Technical Library has developed thiscomprehensive topic area to address a regulatory issuethat is having a major impact on the purchasing practices—and operations—of all Joint Service installations andfederal facilities. This topic area is the only Internetresource based on the September 2004 DoD GreenProcurement Policy: Department of Defense GreenProcurement Strategy. The resources are organized underthe following seven major categories:

1. Alternative Fuels and Fuel Efficiency,

2. Biobased Products,

T R E N D S of the environment

3. Energy Efficient Products (Energy Star and EnergyEfficient Stand-by Power Devices),

4. Environmentally Preferable Products,

5. Non-Ozone Depleting Substances,

6. Priority Chemicals, and

7. Recovered Material (Recycled-Content) Products.

The EMS LibraryA former Federal Environmental Executive described theEMS Library as “the most comprehensive and up-to-dateEMS resource available to federal agencies.” The EMSLibrary is designed to enable Joint Service and civilianfederal facility personnel to access pertinent and timelyEMS implementation information. The EMS Library willcontinue to provide valuable resources for facilitiespersonnel as they move from a primary focus on imple-mentation to the operational and maintenance elementsand management reviews that complete the EMS continualimprovement cycle.

Sustainable DevelopmentThe concept of sustainable organizations is an extension ofthe proactive P2 and EMS programs already in place orunder development at Joint Service and federal facilities. AsDoD moves toward sustainable installations, the Joint

Service P2 Technical Library will continue to provide timelyinformation and pertinent resources to help Joint Serviceinstallations and facilities plan for the future of theirmissions within the context of environmental stewardship.

The Sustainable Development resources are organized intothe following topics of interest:

� Overviews,

� Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,

� Natural Resource Protection (air, water, land),

� Partnerships/Stakeholder Relations, and

� Sustainable Building Design and Construction.

For proven approaches to problem solving and innovativesolutions to common environmental challenges, visit the JointService P2 Technical Library at http://p2library.nfesc.navy.mil/today. �



Charles SokolNaval Facilities Engineering Service Center805-982-5318DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

P2 Opportunity TopicsAddress Issues of Vital Interest to the MilitaryEnvironmental Community

� Air Pollution Issues

� Biobased Products

� Electroplating andMetal FinishingTechnologies

� Green Procurement

� Hazardous Material andHazadous WasteManagement

� Ozone DepletingSubstances

� Painting

� Paint Removal Processes

� Petroleum, Oils, andLubricants

� PreproductionTechnologies

� Range Management

� Solid Waste Management

� Solvent Alternatives

� Storm Water

� Sustainable Development

� Wastewater


NFESC Conducts a Mix ofESTCP ProjectsCollaborations Are Encouraged on FutureDemonstration & Validation Projects

The Naval Facilities EngineeringService Center (NFESC) isconducting a mix projectsfunded by theEnvironmental SecurityTechnology CertificationProgram (ESTCP)including a full-scale biore-actor for on-site treatment ofoily waste sludge and is interested infinding collaborators for future demon-stration and validation projects.

ESTCP is the Department of Defense’s (DoD) environmentaltechnology demonstration and validation program. Themission of ESTCP is to identify innovative environmentaltechnologies that target DoD’s most urgent environmentalneeds and are projected to pay back the investment withinfive years through cost savings and improved efficiencies.Each year, ESTCP solicits proposals from various sources.After competitive selection, ESTCP supports the fielddemonstration and validation of technologies at DoD facili-ties. Demonstrations are intended to generate cost andperformance data for acceptance or validation of the tech-nology. ESTCP then encourages implementation andcommercialization of the proven technology.

NFESC is currently conducting several ESTCP fundedprojects. More information about these projects along withthe NFESC points of contact may be obtained by going tothe ESTCP website links provided.

Oily Sludge Biodetoxification (http://www.estcp.org/projects/compliance/200307o.cfm)The objective of this project is to demonstrate and validatean innovative application of a full-scale bioreactor for on-site treatment of oily waste sludge. Average operational costusing the bioreactor is $0.08 per pound of oily sludge,substantially less than the current disposal cost of $0.30 to$1.20 per pound. This demonstration is underway atScranton Army Ammunition Plant.

Low Impact Technologies to Reduce Pollution fromStorm Water Runoff(http://www.estcp.org/projects/compliance/CP-0405.cfm)This project seeks to demonstrate the low-cost structuralcontrol of storm water runoff from industrial or militaryoperations. This demonstration is underway at the Navy

Regional Recycling Center in San Diego, CA. The installa-tion costs about $20,000 per acre of watershed. (For moreinformation on this project, see the Technology Tipscolumn in this issue of Currents.)

Biological Treatment of Solvent-Based Paint (http://www.estcp.org/projects/compliance/CP-0520.cfm)The objective of this project is to demonstrate and validatethe on-site biological treatment of expired shelf life paint asan economically and technically practical solution to wastepaint disposal. To accomplish this objective, a full-scalebiological treatment system will be assembled at the NavyPublic Works Center in Pearl Harbor, HI. The cost of a full-scale biological treatment system is approximately $400,000.


Demonstrations are intended to generate cost and performance data for acceptance

or validation of the technology.ESTCP then encourages implementation

and commercialization of the proven technology.

The return on investment for biological treatment comparedto current practice is less than one year.

Constructed Wetlands for the Remediation andBeneficial Reuse of Dredged Sediments(http://www.estcp.org/projects/compliance/CP-0522.cfm)This project seeks to demonstrate and validate constructedwetland technology as an economically and technicallypractical solution for dredged sediment remediation andbeneficial reuse. A full-scale constructed wetland will beestablished and operated at Waipio Peninsula in PearlHarbor, HI. Sediment remediation with beneficial reusecosts $20 per cubic yard. In contrast, placing contami-nated sediment in a confined disposal facility with notreatment and no beneficial reuse costs $60 to $120 percubic yard.

Soy Methyl Ester Bio-based Solvent Demonstration (http://www.estcp.org/projects/pollution/200305o.cfm)The objective of this project is to test and implement a newclass of organic solvents that can be used on critical compo-nents. This new class of organic solvents must meet DoDmaterial compatibility and performance criteria, notcontribute to emission of volatile organic compounds(VOC), and contain no hazardous air pollutants. Bearingcleaning using a soy-based solvent is being demonstrated atNaval Air Depot North Island in San Diego, CA.

Demonstration of NoFoam System Technology forAircraft Hanger and Fuel Farm Fire SuppressionFoam System(http://www.estcp.org/projects/pollution/PP-0525.cfm)During aircraft hangar and fuel farm fire suppressionfoam systems discharge checks, aqueous film formingfoam is released. This project will demonstrate and vali-date the effectiveness of the NoFoam System technologyfor performance discharge checks on the existing DoDaircraft hangars fire suppression foam systems and fuelfarm fire suppression foam systems at Naval Air StationLemoore, Tyndall Air Force Base and Fort Belvoir; and a

fuel farm fire suppression foam system at Naval StationPearl Harbor.

Demonstration/Validation of Zero VOC, Coal TarFree Splash Zone Coating (http://www.estcp.org/projects/pollution/PP-0528.cfm)The objective of this project is to demonstrate and validatetwo innovative, Low VOC, Coal Tar Free Splash ZoneCoatings (SZC) to protect in-service steel located in the“Splash Zone.” The Navy owns about 816 million squarefeet of waterfront bulkheads. If 0.1 percent of these bulk-heads are replaced annually with new sheet piles coatedwith the SZC or receive the SZC as an in-service mainte-nance coating, VOCs would be reduced by 9,749 poundsper year (lbs/year), 34,560 lbs/year of coal tar pitch wouldbe eliminated, and one-time maintenance cycle costs up to$18.7M would be avoided. This project is being demon-strated at Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL.

Additional information about ESTCP and its manydemonstration projects can be found at: http://www.estcp.org. NFESC develops new proposals for demon-strating innovative environmental technologies forsubmission to ESTCP in March/April of each year. You areencouraged to contact NFESC directly if your activitywould benefit by partnering with NFESC for other ESTCPdemonstration proposals and/or being a host site fordemonstrating new technologies. �



Jennie DummerNaval Facilities Engineering Service Center805-982-1674DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

NAVAIR Releases 2006Compliance Calendar PosterCalendar Forecasts Changes On the RegulatoryHorizon

The Naval Air System Command (NAVAIR) has justreleased the 2006 poster version of its environmental“Compliance Calendar” —an automated database that fore-casts potential changes to existing environmental regula-tions that may affect a variety of maintenance operationsincluding electroplating and surface finishing, painting andcoatings, paint stripping and coating removal.

Acquisition Program Managers and facility managers mustalways maintain a timely and complete understanding thepotential impacts of pending changes to the environmentallegislative and regulatory landscape. And they need toproperly plan and budget to ensure that their programs arein a constant state of compliance. Fortunately, NAVAIR’sProgram Management Community Support Department(PMCSD) Environmental Program Office (AIR 1.1E) devel-



oped the environmental Compliance Calendar toallow Program Managers and facility managers to identifypending environmental regulations that may threaten theircompliance status and research and development (R&D)projects that can help them mitigate the associated risks.

AIR 1.1E is responsible for providing oversight for environ-mental lifecycle management and ensuring that ProgramManagers understand and comply with environmentalrequirements. AIR 1.1E has developed innovative productsand the capabilities to anticipate and provide ProgramManagers, Fleet customers, and facility managers with solu-tions to address current environmental, safety, and occupa-tional health (ESOH) needs as well as identify and mitigatefuture ESOH risks.

AIR 1.1E developed the Compliance Calendar to identify,quantify and respond to the pending changes in environ-mental regulations that could have significant impact onoperations of naval facilities or the design and maintenanceof naval aviation programs.

The Compliance Calendar is available in two forms—aprinted poster and automated database. The automateddatabase identifies and ranks ESOH drivers from local,State, and Federal regulations. After ESOH drivers are

Release of New Fact Sheet About the Compliance Calendar

afact sheet with moredetails about the

Compliance Calendar isnow available via theNAVAIR environmentalweb site.

Visit www.enviro-navair.navy.mil (select“fact sheets”) to viewelectronic (pdf) copiesof the ComplianceCalendar and other fact sheets produced by AIR 1.1E.Hardcopies of all fact sheets are available by contactingMargaret Anderson at 904-317-2039 [email protected].

ranked, the Compliance Calendar determines the poten-tial impact of pending regulatory changes on operationalreadiness. It can be used to determine potential impact ofcompliance issues throughout the Fleet, by activity or byweapon system. For example, the process category of“Cleaning and Degreasing” includes a number of tech-nical references to the Clean Air Act and defines the needfor owner/operators of batch vapor/in-line solventcleaning machines to submit the required annual reports.Specific references are included to help users properlyprepare their annual reports. The printed poster versionof the Compliance Calendar contains a comprehensivelisting of the current and pending changes to major envi-ronmental regulations, as well as a list of the technologiesthat, in various stages of development, can minimize oreliminate the impacts to acquisition programs of pendingchanges to environmental regulations. For example,under the process category of “Plating—Chromium” a listof alternative technology projects are identified whichhave the potential to mitigate various ESOH driversincluding the proposed new rule to lower the permissibleexposure limit to Chromium (VI) to 1 microgram percubic of air.

The Compliance Calendar empowers Program Managersand facility managers with the information they need toprepare for and respond to changes in environmental regu-lations that threaten their compliance status.

The Compliance Calendar is periodically released as a hard-copy poster to identify the most pressing ESOH regulatorydrivers by industrial process category and associated projectmitigation strategy. The electronic version of theCompliance Calendar can be accessed via the NAVAIR envi-ronmental website at www.navair-enviro.navy.mil.

Through the effective planning, management, tracking, andmonitoring of available resources, AIR 1.1E is institutional-izing sound ESOH management principles across NAVAIR.The benefits of this process include:

a. Reducing environmental risks and liabilities,

b. Achieving environmental benefits and cost savings,

c. Improving industrial processes,

d. Achieving program missions at a competitive advantage,and

e. Maintaining environmental compliance.

For more information about this and other AIR 1.1E prod-ucts and services, visit the NAVAIR environmental websiteat www.navair-enviro.navy.mil. For a printed copy of theCompliance Calendar poster, contact either Tom Cowherdor Bob Hicks. �



Tom CowherdNaval Air Depot Jacksonville, FL904-317-2037DSN: 942-6500, [email protected]

Bob HicksNAVAIR Program Management

Community Support DepartmentEnvironmental Support Office (AIR 1.1E)301-757-2148DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T S

The Basics About the NAVAIRCompliance CalendarTargeted Users

� Facility-based environmental program managers

� Program ESOH Coordinators

� Maintenance manual owners

� Principal Investigators of R&D (new technology) projects

Functions

� Forecasts impact of future and pending ESOH legisla-tion and regulations.

Products

� Web-based Compliance Calendar database

� Printed Compliance Calendar poster

� Overlay of 2005 ESOH drivers from the ComplianceCalendar with relevant ESOH research and develop-ment projects

Personnel from the NavalAir Systems Command(NAVAIR) Lakehurst, NJand Naval Air Station(NAS) Willow Grove, PA

used P-3 aircraft to successfully eval-uate a new, more effective cleaningtechnology – the Portafoamer AircraftCleaning Unit that minimizes thewaste generated and reduces theamount of labor required.

Aircraft Cleaning: Why and HowLarge and small aircraft form an inte-gral part of Navy operations. One ofthese aircraft, the P-3, plays an impor-tant role in anti-submarine warfareand battle-space surveillance. The P-3has advanced submarine detectionsensors such as ranging sonobuoysand magnetic anomaly detectionequipment. It also accepts sensor datainputs for tactical display and storage,and can carry weapons internally andon wing pylons.

Navy maintenance practices requirethat aircraft be cleaned periodically ofsurface contaminants such as dirt,grime, salt, gunblast residue, andcarbonized exhaust. The “NavalAviation Maintenance Program,Concepts, Policies, Organizations,Maintenance Support Procedures andOrganizational/Intermediate LevelMaintenance” (Navy regulationCOMNAVAIRFOR 4790.2H, dated 1June 2001) requires the periodiccleaning of all aircraft exterior surfacesfor corrosion protection prior tomaintenance. Due to concerns ofwater intrusion and damage tosealants in the airframe, “TechnicalManual, Aircraft Weapons SystemsCleaning and Corrosion Control”(NAVAIR 01-1A-509, dated 1 May2001) limits the output of aircraftcleaning equipment to 175 poundsper square inch (psi) water pressureand does not authorize steam cleaningof aircraft surfaces.

The current cleaning method at NASWillow Grove is to presoak the P-3aircraft with water from a fire hose.The Foam Generating Cleaning Unit(FGCU) that is used has a tankcapacity of either 15 or 45 gallons.The FGCU is filled with a solution ofone gallon of soap to 10 gallons ofcold water. This premixed solutiongenerates soap foam to clean theaircraft surfaces. The soap foam isthen sprayed onto the aircraft usingthe FGCU and remains on the aircraftfor up to one minute. Navy personnelscrub the aircraft surface with brushesand rags to remove contaminants andthen rinse the foam off using the firehose. When the cleaning task iscompleted, the FGCU is drained andflushed. The excess soap solution andthe flushed water create waste andadd to the workload during thecleaning process.

PPEP EquipmentIn an attempt to minimize the amountof waste generated by aircraft cleaningand to reduce the labor effortrequired, the Portafoamer AircraftCleaning Unit (PACU) was proposedas a technology demonstration projectunder the Pollution Prevention


Lakehurst & Willow Grove PersonnelSuccessfully Demonstrate thePortafoamer Aircraft Cleaning Unit

Navy maintenance practices require that aircraft becleaned periodically of surface contaminants such as dirt,

grime, salt, gunblast residue, and carbonized exhaust.

Making Aircraft

Cleaning Easier

Equipment Program(PPEP). After an exten-sive vendor search,Sioux Steam CleanerCorporation wasselected to supply thecandidate system mostlikely to meet Navyregulation limits andother requirements.

The PACU is poweredby either a 120 VoltsAlternating Current ordiesel engine. Thesystem can deliver hotwater (200 degreesFahrenheit) or foam at2.5 gallons per minute(gpm) and a cold-waterrinse at 10 gpm up to175 psi. The systemconsists of a burner,20-gallon soap tank,100-gallon water tank, foamer attach-ment (for mixing air, water, and thefoaming agent), a 50-foot dualair/soap delivery hose, and trigger gunoperation. The foamer portion isoperated using either shop air at 80psi or atmospheric pressure. A chem-ical metering pump is used foradjustable and lockable chemicalmetering using operator-selectedproportioning. These main compo-nents are mounted on a trailer that

can be used in conjunction with anexisting wash rack.

When using the PACU, the first stepis to fill the 100-gallon water tankusing either a garden hose or a firehose. The operator then initiates thehot water washer and foamer. Toinitiate the hot water washer, theoperator switches the burner to the“on” position and squeezes thetrigger of the gun. When foam isneeded, the chemical pump is turned

on. This pump draws soap from thesoap tank and injects the soap intothe water stream at the point ofapplication (i.e., the end of the spraygun). The operator can then applythe foam to the aircraft at 175 psi.This step involves less scrubbingbecause the foam adheres to theaircraft and the hot water helps toremove the contaminants.

The final step is to rinse the foam offof the aircraft using the cold-water


Pilots and ground crew work together to launch a P-3 Orion. P-3 aircraft were used to successfully evaluate a new, more effective cleaning technology—the PACU that minimizes the waste generated and reduces the amount of labor required.U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Jeremy Siegrist

Fuselage cleaningwith the PACU.Photo by David Snow

Wheel-well cleaningwith the PACU.Photo by David Snow

rinse. A 1 1/2-horsepower pump forces the cold waterfrom the tank through the trigger-operated gun at 10 gpm.The wastewater drains to floor drains or the existing washrack area.

Demonstrated BenefitsThe PACU has several potential benefits, including:

� Reduces the volume of soap and water used and thewastewater generated. The PACU’s chemical metering pump and foamerattachment prevent unneeded soap from being added towater, thus reducing the amount of soap needed toclean the aircraft, as well as the volume of water usedand the wastewater generated.

� Improves the efficiency and effectiveness of aircraftcleaning.In accordance with limitations set by the NAVAIR 01-1A-509 manual, the PACU uses hot water and foam whichprovides personnel with immediate cleaning action.

� Provides a safer working environment.The PACU includes longer wands and has improvedspraying power (175 psi). As a result, personnel do nothave to stand on the aircraft wings to thoroughly cleanthe aircraft.

Summary of ResultsDuring the test period, the PACU method completelyreplaced the previous FGCU method of cleaning. Data were


The cost analysis for maintaining a squadron with six P-3 aircraft using the PACU system showed a 10-year return on investment of approximately $393,424.U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Photographer’s Mate Mahlon K. Miller

The Cost Analysis Behind the PACUThe cost analyses for maintaining a squadron of six and nine P-3’s using the PACU are shown below:

Number of P-3 in Squadron 10-Year Return on Investment Break-Even PointSix $393,424 0.67

Nine $604,205 0.44

collected using the Daily and MonthlyOperational Data Sheets provided withthe project Test Plan. During the testperiod, 15 cleanings were performedusing the PACU.

A squadron that maintains P-3aircraft can have as few as six aircraftor as many as nine. The cost analysisfor maintaining a squadron with sixP-3 aircraft showed a 10-year returnon investment (ROI) of approxi-mately $393,424 and a break-evenpoint of approximately 0.67 years.The cost analysis for maintainingnine P-3 aircraft showed a 10-yearROI of approximately $604,205 anda break-even point of approximately0.44 years.

The total procurement cost for thePACU unit was $32,480, whichincludes recommended options, modi-fications made during the project, andthe training necessary to operate the

PACU. Based on all available data fromthe project, the following informationwas also gathered.

In general, NAS Willow Grovepersonnel found the PACU equip-ment easy to use and integrate intothe site’s procedures and standardoperations. They incorporated thePACU into regularly scheduledaircraft cleaning, thus making thecleaning process more efficient andeffective. Site personnel also noticed areduction in the number of man-hours required for aircraft cleaningdue to the PACU’s performance. ThePACU did involve additional mainte-nance checks on an operational andperiodic basis, but the savings inlabor hours required to perform theaircraft cleaning offset these laborhours. Overall, NAS Willow Grovepersonnel were satisfied with thePACU’s performance.


David SnowNAVAIR Lakehurst, NJ732-323-2863DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

An Aviation Structural Mechanic signals a right turn for a P-3C Orion. The P-3 plays an important role in anti-submarine warfare and battle-space surveillance.U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Chris Otsen

Future UseIn the future, this unit may assist withshipboard operations to clean aircraftmore efficiently. Modifications and sizerequirements would have to be testedfor the PACU to be available for ship-board use.

The PACU tested by this projectsuccessfully interfaced with the Navyoperating environment and appears tohave wide applicability to aircraftoperations and maintenance. �

The Naval Sea SystemsCommand (NAVSEA) andAmerican Bureau ofShipping (ABS) havedeveloped Naval Vessel

Rules (NVR) for shipboard environ-mental protection systems to minimizethe total ownership cost of futurenaval environmental compliance.

Afloat compliance with environ-mental laws, regulations, ExecutiveOrders, international agreements,and host-country requirements ismore than a legal mandate—it is vitalif Navy ships are to maintain readi-

ness and operate, train, and makeport calls when and where neededaround the world. Although environ-mental protection requirementsapply to all naval platforms, theplanned concept of operation,mission capability and duration, andmanning level help determine thetype and level of pollution abatementcapability that any single platformmust possess. For example, theNavy’s growing littoral presenceresults in extended ship operationsin waters where overboard dischargesare more restricted than the openocean. To this end, the NVRs

governing Environmental ProtectionSystems were developed to enablethe Navy and contract design agentsto tailor the level of pollution abate-ment capability of a new platform tomatch its mission and plannedconcept of operation. The NVRs alsoenable the Navy to apply a Fleet-wide perspective to establishing aplatform’s environmental require-ments and to designing shipboardenvironmental equipment andsystems through the use of commonshipboard environmental solutionscoupled with the appropriate degreeof standardization. This approach


NavalVessel Rulesfor Shipboard Environmental Protection Systems

Ensuring Navy Ships Are Designed forAffordable and Mission-CompatibleEnvironmental Compliance

The Naval Vessel Rules governing Environmental Protection Systems were developed to enable the

Navy to tailor the level of pollution abatement capability of a new platform to match its mission

and planned concept of operation.

will help reduce the associated logistics burden and life-cycle costs by minimizing the number of platform-uniqueenvironmental systems in the Fleet.

In accordance with NAVSEA Instruction 5400.97A,Engineering and Technical Authority Policy, and NAVSEANote 5400, NAVSEA Warranted Technical Authorities,NAVSEA’s Ship Environmental Engineering Division(SEA 05M4) is the Command’s Technical WarrantHolder for Environmental Systems and MaterialsEngineering—Ships. In this role, SEA 05M4 hasreview and approval authority for the design, installa-tion, and operational certification of shipboard envi-ronmental equipment, systems, and managementpractices. To facilitate Technical Authority execution ofenvironmental solutions for new construction ships,NAVSEA has included performance and design rulesfor Environmental Protection Systems in the NVRs it isdeveloping in conjunction with the ABS for non-nuclear surface combatants (ABS NVR 5.7.1 - 18). TheNaval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division(NSWCCD) is a partner with NAVSEA in the execu-tion of Technical Authority, and in the development ofthe NVRs plus associated technical documents.NSWCCD Engineering Agents and Lead Engineerssupport SEA 05M4’s Technical Authority process withenvironmental systems expertise, engineering data, in-service experience, and Fleet lessons learned.

The NVRs establish performance requirements forthe shipboard management of waste streams andhazardous materials. They identify the top-levellegal and policy drivers for shipboard control ofregulated discharges; provide basic system perfor-mance and design objectives for the collection,storage, processing, and retrograde of the wastes;and incorporate the requirement for operationalcertification. For each waste stream, the NVR willinvoke a companion NAVSEA Design Supplement(NDS) that provides detailed design, engineering,integration, and installation guidance. The NDSsreflect decades of Navy laboratory and at-sea expe-rience with environmental systems, timely tech-nology assessments of commercial marine

environmental products, and the lessons learned acrossdifferent types of ships and operating scenarios. Together,the NVRs and associated NDSs represent a centralizedrecord of environmental requirements and engineeringexperience for new and legacy ships. The NVRs will facili-tate NAVSEA oversight and survey of new construction


Current Naval Vessel Rules

the NVRs currently include requirements and technical datafor the following:

� Plastics waste

� Paper and cardboard

� Metal and glass waste

� Food waste

� Discarded personal sanitary items

� Incinerator ash

� Blackwater

� Graywater

� Bilge water and oily wastewater

� Fuel tank strippings

� Non-oily machinery wastewater

� Hazardous materials management—ship lifecycle design

� Hazardous materials management—shipboard control

� Hazardous materials management—used rags

� Non-infectious solid medical waste

� Infectious solid medical waste

� Liquid medical waste

New NVRs and NDSs will be created for other wastestreams as legal and policy requirements dictate.

programs in an effort to maximize commonality of navalenvironmental solutions and thereby minimize the envi-ronmental compliance portion of the Navy’s total owner-ship cost across the Fleet.

The NVRs and NDSs are developed jointly by SEA 05M4and NSWCCD, with assistance from ABS. Attention wasfocused first on those waste streams for which SEA 05M4 isresponsible, and then on those covered by NAVSEAwarrants outside of SEA 05M4. The latter are typically hull,

Components of a Naval Vessel Rule

all Naval Vessel Rules follow the same basic format.The NVR for plastic waste contains the following

specific components:

1 General Information

1.1 Scope / Waste Stream—Description

1.2 Applicable References (references to the appropriate U.S. Code and Navy instructions)

1.3 Requirements

1.3.1 Applicability

1.3.2 Plastic Waste Processing (references to the solid waste managementchapter in the NAVSEA Design Supplement 1100)

1.4 Abbreviations and Definitions

2 System Design

2.1 Sources and Composition (sources of plastic waste)

2.2 Generation and Design Rates (plastic waste generation rates)

2.3 Collection (ship staging to support segregation of plastic waste)

2.4 Processing (plastic waste processing procedures)

2.5 Storage (shipboard storage requirements)

2.6 Retrograde (limited to nonfood-contaminated plastic)

3 Certification

3.1 Responsibility (responsibility for the handling,management and processing of plastic)

3.2 Documentation (required plastic waste system documentation)

3.3 Survey (Surveyor’s responsibility for the installation of plastic waste and associated systems)

The DD(X) program is the first acquisition program to invoke Naval Vessel Rules in its Design, Build and Process Specification.

DD(X), a land attack destroyer, is being designed to deliver a vast range of war fighting capabilities. Naval Vessel Rules and the associated

design supplements will enable the DD(X) acquisition program to achieve a level of pollution abatement that is in concert with

the DD(X) mission and planned concepts of operation.

The Naval Vessel Rulesestablish performancerequirements for theshipboard managementof waste streams andhazardous materials.


Sections of the Naval Vessel Rule for Environmental Protection SystemsThe Naval Vessel Rules for Environmental Protection Systems include a number of different sections including the following:

mechanical, and electrical (HM&E)systems and propulsion systems whoseoperation have environmental conse-quences, and will be addressed inseparate NAVSEA Design GuidanceDocuments. The NVR and NDS foreach waste stream contain complemen-tary sections on requirements, systemdesign, and certification. The system

design sections of both documentscontain information on waste sourcesand composition; waste generation anddesign rates; and requirements forcollection, processing, storage, andretrograde to shore.

New NVRs and NDSs will be createdfor other waste streams as legal and


policy requirements dictate. Forexample, deck runoff and gas turbinewater wash are wastes that will besubject to new Uniform NationalDischarge Standards (UNDS) regula-tions being jointly developed by theDepartment of Defense (with Navylead) and the EnvironmentalProtection Agency. In addition, the

1. Plastic Waste This NVR section governs the management of shipboardplastic waste including all plastics except plastic contam-inated with hazardous materials.

2. GraywaterThis NVR section governs the management of gray-water—discarded water from deck drains, lavatories,showers, dishwashers, laundries, and garbage grinders aswell as discarded water from shipboard medical facilities,but does not include industrial wastes, infectious wastes,and human body wastes.

3. BlackwaterThis NVR section governs the management of blackwater—human body wastes and the wastes from toilets and otherreceptacles intended to receive or retain body wastes.

4. Hazardous Material Management—Ship Life Cycle DesignThis NVR section requires design and acquisition teamsof U.S. Naval vessels to integrate hazardous materialcontrol and management throughout the design andacquisition process. These teams must establish and inte-grate a hazardous material control and managementprocess that is executed by the design/acquisition teams.

NVRs and NDSs will address cross-functional environ-mental systems, such as the thermal destruction of solidand liquid wastes.

Several ship acquisition programs have already benefitedfrom the application of NVR and NDS documents. DD(X),Littoral Combat Ship (LCS)—Lockheed Martin, andLCS—General Dynamics are following the NVR guide-lines. Other programs, including the LHA(R) (an aviationenhanced amphibious assault ship), the CVN(X) (the 21stcentury nuclear aircraft carrier), and the DDG-51 Classdestroyer and the Navy’s new land attack destroyer, arebenefiting from the environmental guidance and engi-neering details these documents provide as a central refer-ence resource. As commercial shipbuilding practices andcommercially available environmental equipment andsystems become more widely adopted for the constructionof naval vessels, the reliance on NVRs will increase. TheNVRs and NDSs—in conjunction with SEA 05M4’sTechnical Authority review, approval, and certificationprocesses—will provide consolidated and validated

performance and design requirements upon which shipdesigners and builders can confidently create detailedspecifications and designs. Potential major benefitsinclude reduced specification build time, streamlinedgovernment review cycles, ability to tailor government-source documents to project-specific mission and capa-bility requirements, environmental compliance riskreduction, and efficient updating to reflect new laws, regu-lations, Navy policies, and Fleet experience. �


Solid Waste Pulpers As Shipboard Waste Management Options

approximately 70 percent by weight of a ship’s non-hazardous solid waste—mainly paper, cardboard and softgalley waste—is currently pulped with seawater to form a slurry and discharge overboard. Detailed design

information about the small and large solid waste pulper as a shipboard waste management option is provided inNAVSEA Design Supplement 1102, “Paper and Cardboard Waste”.

Anthony RodriguezNaval Sea Systems Command202-781-3752 DSN: [email protected]

C O N T A C T

LEFT: A large solid waste pulper being operated on the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON(CVN 73).

ABOVE: A large solid waste pulper being operated on the amphibious assault ship USS WASP (LHD 1).

how else will you know what is going in theNavy’s environmental program? You’ve got to

subscribe to Currents.

Who knew about . . .

� The details of the National Wildlife Federation’sReport on the threats posed by exotic plants andanimals on military operations.

� Efforts by personnel from the former Naval AirStation (NAS) South Weymouth, MA to conduct suc-cessful site remediation while protecting rarespecies—the spotted turtle and eastern box turtle.

� The award-winning “complete ship” approachadopted by USS O’KANE personnel that includesthe application of innovative energy and environ-mental management techniques to standard envi-ronmental guidance.

� Parris Island’s efforts to clear the way to theCharlesfort-Santa Elena National Historic Landmark.

� MCAS Yuma’s Best Management Practices and outreach efforts that control particulate matter generation.

Currents subscribers did! Be “in the know”—subscribe to Currents NOW!

Currents is your key into the inter-esting and dynamic work thatyou and your fellow stewardsperform day in and day out touphold our environmental com-mitments while safeguardingour military readiness.

Lots of people with an interestin the Navy’s environmentalprogram are reading Currents.You should too. Each quarter,Currents is chock full of interest-ing, informative, and entertainingarticles that uniquely capture theessence of what the U.S. Navy isdoing to protect our sharedenvironment.

You can subscribe to Currentsvia the Naval Air SystemsCommand’s environmentalweb site at www.enviro-navair.navy.mil or by sending an email message to Currents’Distribution Manager Margaret Anderson [email protected] with your complete mailing address.

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