Environment workshops on buildup start today

Environment workshops on buildup start today

Tuesday, 27 October 2009 04:34
Varitey[sic] News Staff

(Adelup) -- Workshops on the Guam Compatibility and Sustainability Study and an orientation on the National Environmental Policy Act process regarding the military buildup will take place starting today until Thursday at the Tamuning, Dededo and Agat community centers.

The NEPA process is part of a national policy that was developed to help protect the environment and mitigate related concerns. The process, which relies on the analysis and review of information, including public input, will help guide and evaluate the impacts of the military buildup on the island community.

“It is imperative that our people understand the NEPA process and are well-versed on how to formally present their input,” said Gov. Felix P. Camacho.

As part of the NEPA process, according to Joint Guam Program Office officials, the official public review period for the military buildup draft environmental impact statement is set to take place sometime next month.

A major part of the workshop will be dedicated to the Guam CSS that is being prepared by the Guam Advisory Consulting Team. The primary goal of the Guam CSS will be to reduce the potential conflicts that may occur between the community of Guam and the military installations/ training areas while sustaining economic development, protecting public health and safety, and protecting current and future military missions.

“I encourage all residents to participate during these workshops, which will contribute to identifying both conflicts and solutions that concern many of our residents,” said Camacho.

To provide easy access for interested attendees, the workshop will be held at the following locations:

For more information, call Charlene Calip 475-9303 or 788-0589, or e-mail Charlene.calip@guam.gov, or visit the One Guam website at www.one.guam.gov.