EPA and partners have developed two water and climate assessment modeling tools, the Better Assessment Science Integrating Point and Non-point Sources (BASINS) and the Water Erosion Prediction Project Climate Assessment Tool (WEPPCAT), that facilitate application of existing simulation models for conducting scenario-based assessments of potential climate change effects on streamflow and water quality. The report presents a series of short case studies using the BASINS and WEPP tools. The case studies are designed to illustrate the capabilities of these tools for conducting scenario-based assessments of the potential effects of climate, land use, and management change on water resources. This report is of interest to modeling professionals including water and watershed managers, urban or regional planners, government officials, and scientists and engineers interested in using the BASINS or WEPP water models to assess the potential implications of climate change on water resources. For more information, visit: http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/global/recordisplay.cfm?deid=242952.
Apartment and Condominium Units Can Earn WaterSense Label
EPA has modified its specification for new homes to enable apartment and condominium units to earn the WaterSense label, updated product requirements, and adjusted landscape criteria. Using WaterSense-labeled plumbing fixtures, efficient hot water systems, and low-maintenance, water-smart landscapes allows you and your family to enjoy the comforts of home while using less water and energy and spending less money on utility bills. Compared to a typical home, a WaterSense-labeled new home can save a family of four 50,000 gallons of water a year or more. That's enough to wash 2,000 loads of laundry and could amount to utility bill savings of up to $600 each year. Homes labeled after January 1, 2013 must meet the criteria of the revised specification. For more information on the new label, visit: http://epa.gov/watersense/new_homes/index.html.
Application Period for the 2013 Climate Leadership Awards Open Through October 12, 2012
EPA's Climate Protection Partnerships Division is committed to reducing greenhouse gases through cost-effective partnerships to advance clean energy and energy efficiency across the U.S. economy. As part of this commitment, EPA co-sponsors the Climate Leadership Awards with three NGO partners: The Climate Registry, the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, and the Association of Climate Change Officers. Applications are being accepted for the 2013 Climate Leadership Awards through October 12, 2012. The Climate Leadership Awards is a national awards program that recognizes and incentivizes exemplary corporate, organizational, and individual leadership in response to climate change. In February 2012, the first-ever awards were presented to one individual and 20 organizations from across the U.S. who are leading the way in the management and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This year's award winners will be publicly recognized in early 2013 at an awards gala in Washington, DC in conjunction with the Climate Leadership Conference. Applications and eligibility criteria are available at: http://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/awards/index.html?CFID=1579296&CFTOKEN=16556336.
EPA Video Highlights Utility Use of Clean Water State Revolving Fund to Invest in Water Recycling and Reuse
EPA has made available online a video highlighting the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, a regional wastewater service provider and distributor of wholesale and recycled water in California, which used the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program to conserve water and reduce energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions. Efforts included pipeline construction for recycled water, watershed restoration, and an energy efficiency project that reduced the weight and related energy cost of processing biosolids in wastewater treatment. The Clean Water SRF program, through the Green Project Reserve, helps achieve innovative solutions to wastewater infrastructure needs through projects that address green infrastructure, water efficiency, energy efficiency, or other environmentally innovative activities. To view the video, visit: . For more information on the SRF's Green Project Reserve, visit: http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/cwsrf/Green-Project-Reserve.cfm.
Publication Released: Federal Resources for Sustainable Rural Communities
The HUD-DOT-EPA Partnership for Sustainable Communities and USDA have jointly released the report Federal Resources for Sustainable Rural Communities. This report outlines available federal government programs that support rural communities in promoting economic development and enhancing the quality of life for rural residents. More specifically, this report provides information on federal programs related to Water Infrastructure and Water Quality, including the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, US-Mexico Border Water Infrastructure Program Grants, Nonpoint Source Implementation Grants, and the Pollution Control Grant Program (Clean Water Act Section 106). Additionally, the publication compiles all of the federal resources that can support rural communities in their efforts to promote economic competitiveness, protect healthy environments, modernize infrastructure and provide services to residents. To view the press release, visit:http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2012/07/30/making-federal-resources-more-accessible-rural-communities. The report is available at: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov/pdf/federal_resources_rural.pdf.
EPA and Other Federal Partners Launch Sustainable Community Case Study Database
The HUD-DOT-EPA Partnership for Sustainable Communities has launched the Sustainable Community Case Study Database. This online resource provides access to research and reports on communities that are working with EPA, HUD, DOT, and other federal agencies to invest in transportation, affordable housing, and environmental protection. Across the country, communities are putting the Partnership's livability principles into action and creating development that strengthens their economies, leverages assets, and provides residents with more housing and transportation choices. The case studies within this database are just a few examples of communities working with federal agencies to addresses issues such as water management, green building, transit, housing, smart growth, and environmental protection. To access this database, visit: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov/studies.html.
This information was sent via email newsletter from Kathleen McAllister of www.horsleywitten.com by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water (EPA). For past issuesof EPA Climate Change and Water News, visit http://www.epa.gov/water/climatechange.