Actions Completed for Emergency Preparedness:

Cal-EPA conducts quarterly Emergency Response Multi-Agency Coordination (ERMAC) meetings, to share information, coordinate, ensure consistency and set priorities for emergency management through the agency's organization. El Niño will be the focus of the October 1997 meeting.

In January 1997, the Integrated Waste Management Board (IWMB) adopted an integrated disaster debris recovery plan, which serves as a guide to local jurisdictions preparing its own, locally specific plans. The plan was presented to local representatives in five statewide workshops.

In July 1997, the IWMB issued an advisory, providing guidance to local agencies on the issuance of emergency waiver of solid waste facility standards to facilitate disaster cleanup efforts.

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) established zone contracts to provide hazardous materials emergency response support, which included communications mechanisms to coordinate the handling of hazardous materials response work with federal agencies.

DTSC centralized management of flood response activities in its Department Operating Centers. The department has also actively pursued FEMA reimbursement to be available for potential 1998 flood work.

The State Water Resources Control (SWRCB) Board requested all public-owned treatment works to update and submit their wet weather contingency plans.

The SWRCB has increased inspections and dairy industry awareness of runoff problems. The department has facilitated municipal stormwater channels being cleared of vegetation and Regional Board staff are expediting related permit processing. They have also inspected landfills prior to the wet weather season to ensure erosion control.

The Department of Pesticide Regulation will work with local agricultural commissioners to ensure farming operators are advised of the best management practices regarding the storage and handling of pesticide inventories.

The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment developed a 24-hour response system for providing emergency toxicology and risk assessment assistance in the event of a hazardous chemical spill or release.

Actions Taken to Prepare for El Niño:

Cal-EPA has prepared Permit Assistance Centers to allow for an integrated rapid response to support disaster recovery efforts.

The IWMB has prepared to assist OES on disaster debris disposal, recycling and recovery of materials and special handling and collection needs for hazardous household materials.

The Air Resources Board is ready to work with local air districts to expedite burning of flood debris, as required.

Public Information Contact:

Joe Irvin
916-324-9670