Currents Template

CNO Recognizes Award Winners for

stewardship EXCEPTIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL

Fleet Launches Aircraft Energy-Saving InitiativesMitigating Noise from Open Detonations at China LakeFRCSE Saves Time & Money Locating Potential Aircraft Fuel Leaks

cover

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The Fiscal Year 2012 Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Awardscompetition honored various Navy ships, installations, individuals, andteams for environmental excellence including the Cultural ResourcesManagement Team at Naval Support Activity Monterey, California. Thisteam renovated elements in the Hotel Del Monte Historic District, theRoman Plunge Pool, and adjacent Solarium to reflect the original 1918aesthetic in consultation with the local historic society.Victoria Taber

CNO Environmental Awards Recognize ExceptionalStewardshipAchievements Demonstrate the Navy’s Commitment toProtecting the Environment

Currents (ISSN 1544-6603) is the official energy and environmental magazine of the U.S. Navy, Chief of NavalOperations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division (N45).

This magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Statements made in theN45 Outlook column reflect the official policy of the Navy. The contents in the remainder of the magazine are notnecessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the UnitedStates Navy. Inclusion of any product or service in any Currents feature article does not constitute an endorse mentby the Navy. The Navy encourages all readers to check with the appropriate supervising authority prior to using anyproduct or service mentioned in the magazine.

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Currents (ISSN 1544-6603) is the official energy and environmental magazine of the U.S. Navy, Chief of NavalOperations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division (N45).

This magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Statements made in theN45 Outlook column reflect the official policy of the Navy. The contents in the remainder of the magazine are notnecessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the UnitedStates Navy. Inclusion of any product or service in any Currents feature article does not constitute an endorse mentby the Navy. The Navy encourages all readers to check with the appropriate supervising authority prior to using anyproduct or service mentioned in the magazine.

Article submissions should be submitted directly to Currents’ Managing Editor, Bruce McCaffrey, using theCurrents article template. A public affairs review must be completed before Currents management can consideran article for publication.

Browse the Currents archives and subscribe to the magazine at www.greenfleet.dodlive.mil/currents-magazine.Contact Lorraine Wass, Currents’ Distribution Manager, with any changes to mailing addresses or shipping quantities.

T H E N A V Y,S E N E R G Y & E N V I R O N M E N TA L M A G A Z I N E

Chief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division

DIRECTORRear Admiral Kevin R. Slates

DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACHKenneth Hess

Currents Staff

MANAGING EDITORBruce McCaffrey

Bruce McCaffrey Consulting, [email protected]

773-376-6200

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSKathy Kelley

ART DIRECTORVictoria Bermel

GRAPHIC ARTISTAmy Jungers

DISTRIBUTION MANAGERLorraine Wass

[email protected]

4 N45 Outlook

30 Fleet Launches Aircraft Energy-Saving Initiatives Air ENCON Program Targets Refueling Practices for Savings

34 Mitigating Noise from Open Detonations at China Lake Seasonal & Monthly Analyses Lead to Plan that Minimizes

Impacts to Local Communities

42 SUBASE New London Wetlands UndergoRemediation, Restoration

Contaminated Soil Removed, Invasive Species Tackled

45 NAVMAG Indian Island Treats Wastewater WithoutChemicals

Northwest Navy Base Utilizes Ultraviolet Technology as GreenerAlternative

48 NAS Jacksonville Implements Sustainable Sewage SludgeTreatment

New System Consumes Significantly Less Energy

50 Manmade Wetland at MCRD San Diego RecyclesWastewater

Water Conservation Possible with the Living Machine

54 FRCSE Saves Time & Money Locating Potential Aircraft Fuel Leaks

New Detection Capability Established for P-3 Orion

58 Naval Hospital Bremerton Diverts Biomedical Waste fromIts Waste Stream

Operating Room’s Initiative Reduces Landfill Biohazard Waste,Proves Cost-Efficient

62 Sustainability Approaches Proven Successful at NavalInstallations

Efforts Range from Using Facility Energy More Efficiently toDiverting Construction & Demolition Debris

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features

departments

summer 2013

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Facing Furlough—With the LongView in Mind WELCOME TO THE summer 2013 issue of Currents.Amid the heat and humidity here in Washington, DC,we’re working through tough budgeting issues—as areother federal agencies—while continuing to press forwardon matters of great concern for Navy readiness. Happily, Ido have some progress to report, so I’ll touch briefly onfurlough impacts and then describe energy and environ-mental efforts that have been a focal point over the pastfew months.

There’s no doubt that the civilian furlough has been ahurdle, as our organization depends on a highly skilled,largely civilian workforce. We’re currently into our fourthfurlough week, and while it has caused some challenges,I’ve frankly been very impressed with the professionalismof the team as we’ve worked to overcome those chal-lenges. There have been times when having key membersof the team out of the office has forced us to reprioritizemeetings and adjust schedules to manage impacts. Asdifficult as furlough and related budget issues are for ourpeople and programs in the short term, it’s important tomaintain a “long view” perspective.

With that in mind, we continue working hard to influ-ence Navy-wide culture regarding energy consumptionand the need for increased efficiency in our platforms,systems, and facilities. An example of the type of culturechange that sets the bar for transforming behavior Navy-wide is safety. Over the past 30 years, safety has becomea top priority for our Sailors and workforce, and isaddressed in nearly all aspects of Navy training. We areworking to incorporate this same level of Navy-wideawareness for energy. In the future, new recruits at bootcamp and new officers at officer candidate school orofficer indoctrination school should learn the basics ofwhy energy should be a priority, and then later learnabout energy conservation and efficiency topics morespecific to their jobs. For example, a surface warfareofficer would be exposed to smart voyage planning tech-nology, energy-efficient plant operations, and otherapproaches that could conserve fuel when missionrequirements make it feasible to do so.

We’ve begun energy education initiatives for senior Navyexecutives and flag officers. On July 14–19, the Naval Post-graduate School (NPS) hosted the first Secretary of the

Navy (SECNAV)Energy ExecutiveEducation seminarin Monterey, CA.The Deputy Chiefof Naval Opera-tions for FleetReadiness andLogistics (N4), ourNavy Energy Coor-dination Office,and the Office ofthe Deputy Assis-tant Secretary ofthe Navy forEnergy workedclosely with NPS to develop the curriculum. The seminar’soverarching purpose was to increase awareness of energyas both a capability and a vulnerability. We’ll be interestedin participants’ feedback, and are planning a secondoffering in September.

This past June, the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) hosteda tabletop exercise highlighting vulnerabilities we mightface delivering fuel to the fleet in an operational environ-ment. Participants included representatives from OPNAVN41 (Supply, Ordnance and Logistics), OPNAV N42(Strategic Mobility and Combat Logistics), and my office.We will incorporate lessons learned from the DLA exerciseinto a logistics war game we’re scheduling in theNovember timeframe. This exercise will center on thetheme of “fighting hurt,” a focus area for N4, and willexplore vulnerabilities from fuel and other logistics supplychain items such as ordnance. It will challenge theassumption that these supplies will be delivered when andwherever needed, highlighting significant risks to our oper-ations if those logistics chains are disrupted.

In our at-sea environmental planning, the Atlantic FleetTraining and Testing and Hawaii-Southern CaliforniaTraining and Testing efforts remain a top priority. Weanticipate releasing final Environmental Impact State-ments at the end of August and remain on track for newMarine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered SpeciesAct authorizations to be issued by January 2014,ensuring continuation of vital training and testing activi-ties in these areas.

Additionally, two scientific papers were released in July,summarizing preliminary results of Navy-funded studies in

4 Currents summer 2013

N45outlook

which 17 blue whales and two beaked whales weretracked using passive listening systems and digital datatags (temporarily attached to the animals) to study reac-tions to simulated sonar and other sounds. The resultsvaried, but suggested that some animals reacted to thesounds—and some didn’t—based on the types of activi-ties they were engaged in during the exposures.

In the July 8–12 timeframe, a Navy-funded research teamworked with the USS Dewey (DDG-105) to conduct thefirst-ever controlled exposure experiment using our real-time tactical mid-frequency active sonar as the soundsource. A second controlled exposure experiment tookplace with USS Cape St. George (CG-71) from July 28–30.The team tagged six marine mammals (two blue whales,two Risso’s dolphins, a fin whale, and a Cuvier’s beakedwhale) off Southern California and conducted a series ofsuccessful sound exposures. Data from these studies andother research will be considered as part of our ongoingadaptive management process with the National MarineFisheries Service.

Annually since 1994, we have recognized winners of theChief of Naval Operations (CNO) Environmental Awardsin a ceremony in Washington, DC. This year due to fiscalchallenges, we considered canceling the ceremony.However, Admiral Greenert wanted to ensure that thewinners were recognized for their outstanding achieve-ments, so we conducted the event via video teleconfer-ence on July 11. Winners dialed in from 15 locationsaround the U.S. and overseas for a “virtual” ceremonywith CNO, Vice Admiral Cullom (N4), and myself. Partici-pants at the Pentagon included John Conger (ActingDeputy Under Secretary of Defense for Installations andEnvironment); Roger Natsuhara (Principal Deputy Assis-tant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations andEnvironment); Don Schregardus (Deputy Assistant Secre-tary of the Navy for Environment); Ralph Cantral,Director of the Coastal America Partnership and SeniorAdvisor to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin-istration; and Allison Schutes, Trash Free Seas Coordi-nator for the Ocean Conservancy. In addition to savingsignificant travel dollars, the event was still effective inenabling the CNO to personally thank each of thewinning teams for their efforts. For more informationabout the awards, please see this issue’s cover story onpage 6.

In the area of readiness sustainment and compatibility,we continue to work with the Department of Defense

(DoD) Siting Clearinghouse,SECNAV staff, the Fleets, andChief of Naval InstallationsCommand (CNIC) to reviewproposed renewable energy devel-opment projects to reduce thepotential for interference with theNavy mission. One project under review isa proposed wind farm offshore of Oahu, where we havea key training area. We’ve been meeting with the Bureauof Ocean Energy Management, DoD and Navy stake-holders to identify alternate areas around Oahu thatcould accommodate future wind energy developmentthat would not interfere with critical Navy and MarineCorps training.

We are also in the process of revising the 2007 CNOencroachment management program instruction(11010.40) to reflect issues that have intensified over thesix years since the instruction was released, includingmission compatibility of buildings and other types ofdevelopment; renewable energy impacts; foreign invest-ment around our facilities and training areas; and otheremerging encroachment issues. Because these will bemajor revisions, we’re incorporating additional opportuni-ties for key stakeholders (CNIC, the Naval Facilities Engi-neering Command, and the Fleets) to provide inputbefore finalizing.

Finally, we are taking steps to help communities, privateindustry, and government entities access information toassist them in making decisions about siting renewableenergy projects. We have launched a new page athttp://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/rsc/, where we’re postingmaps that show compatible standoff distances from Navyfacilities and related contact information. We’ll be addingnew content to that page in the coming months, so checkit periodically for updates.

I hope our Navy team, and the many federal and non-federal professionals with whom we interface andwho are affected by the furlough, will maintain the posi-tive mindset I’ve seen to date and continue to focus onthe long view. Thank you for your interest in andcontinued support of the Navy’s energy and environ-mental initiatives. �

Rear Admiral Kevin R. Slates

Director, Chief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division

summer 2013 Currents 5

N45outlook

CNO Recognizes Award Winners for

stewardship EXCEPTIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL

The Fiscal Year 2012 Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Awards competition honored various Navy ships, installations, individuals, and teams for environmental excellence

including the Cultural Resources Management Team at Naval Support Activity Monterey, California. This team renovated elements in the Hotel Del Monte Historic District, the Roman Plunge Pool,

and adjacent Solarium to reflect the original 1918 aesthetic in consultation with the local historic society.Victoria Taber

sustainability (non-industrial installation and indi-vidual/team), environmental restoration (installation),environmental excellence in weapon system acquisi-tion, small program (individual/team), and environ-mental planning (team).

Subject matter experts from the Navy and non-government organizations judged the nominations onaccomplishments from 1 October 2010 through 30September 2012.

“This year’s winners understand that environmentalstewardship is integral to the mission,” said RearAdmiral Kevin Slates, director of the Navy’s Energyand Environmental Readiness division. “Their initia-tives afloat and ashore supported Navy readiness byreducing operational constraints, strengtheningcommunity relationships, and helping sustain theresources we need to accomplish our mission—todayand in the future.”

This article highlights the environmental accomplish-ments of the FY 2012 winners.

hirty winners have been announced for theFiscal Year (FY) 2012 Chief of Naval Operations(CNO) Environmental Awards competition. The

annual program honors Navy ships, installations,individuals, and teams for environmental excellence.

For the FY 2012 competition, Navy commandsfrom around the globe submitted nominations forconsideration in 11 award categories: naturalresources conservation (large installation), culturalresources management, (installation and indi-vidual/team), environmental quality (industrialinstallation, overseas installation, and small ship),

This year’s winners understand thatenvironmental stewardship is

integral to the mission.

—Rear Admiral Kevin Slates


ACHIEVEMENTS DEMONSTRATE THE NAVY’SCOMMITMENT TO PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

WHILE CARRYING OUT NATIONAL DEFENSE MISSION

THE AWARDS PROCESS

t

The CNO Environmental Awards are the first step in athree-part competition within the Department of Defense(DoD). Winners at the CNO level become nominees,along with Marine Corps nominees, at the Secretary ofthe Navy (SECNAV) level of competition. With theexception of the small ship and environmental planningcategories, which have no equivalent at the Secretary ofDefense (SECDEF) level, winners at the SECNAV levelbecome nominees at the SECDEF level of competition.

Congratulations to the Navy and Marine Corps winnersof the 2013 SECDEF Environmental Awards competition:

� Naval Base Coronado, California (NaturalResources Conservation, Large Installation)

� Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina(Cultural Resources Management, Installation)

� Ms. June Noelani Cleghorn, Marine Corps Base,Hawaii (Cultural Resources Management, Indi-vidual/Team)

� Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Japan(Environmental Quality, Overseas Installation)

The Natural Resources Conservation awards recognizeefforts to promote the conservation of natural resources,including the identification, protection, and restoration ofbiological resources and habitats; the sound managementand use of the land and its resources; and the promotionof the conservation ethic.

Large instaLLation Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada The primary objective of the natural resource manage-ment program at Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon is inte-grated stewardship to ensure that the military mission isaccomplished and resources are available for present andfuture generations.

NAS Fallon’s environmental initiatives included estab-lishing partnerships with stakeholders to accomplish

mutually beneficial goals; implementing ecosystemenhancements and invasive species control efforts forseveral ponds at the Dixie Valley Training Range toenable sensitive species, such as the Dixie Valley tui chub(a unique fish species), to thrive with less threat of preda-tion; installing bat-compatible gates to abandoned mines


Custom-designed gates were installed on different types of mine openings, including on Training Range B-19.

The metal gates were installed on abandoned mines toprotect the bat habitat and keep people out of the unsafe mines.

Bats use these mines as maternity roosts and for hibernating.

Cattails were removed and the water supply line was replaced during Domonoske Pondrestoration on the Dixie Valley Electronic Warfare Range. This pond contains bass

and sunfish and the area is open to the public for fishing and camping.

NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION


at Training Ranges 17 and 19 toprotect military personnel andprovide safe habitat for bats; andactively participating in publicoutreach events, such as Earth Day,National Recycling Day, guided tours,and tree plantings, to inform thecommunity about NAS Fallon’sconservation efforts.

Naval Base Coronado, California Using an ecosystem management approach, Naval BaseCoronado’s (NBC), natural resources program success-fully manages 31 federally listed species of plants,animals, and their habitats—one of the highest concen-trations on DoD lands—in a manner that is compatiblewith military operations.

NBC’s proactive management efforts achieved sustainedincreases in population numbers of multiple species,including six federally listed plants slated for down-listing;the San Clemente Island loggerhead shrike population,numbers for which are supportive of down- or de-listing;the island night lizard, which is being considered fordelisting; and the San Clemente Island fox species, whichhas rebounded to the highest numbers ever recorded onthe island. Other accomplishments include partneringwith state government to help protect the nesting groundsof the endangered California Least Tern and WesternSnowy Plover birds, anddeveloping a successfulSan Clemente Island foxmanagement and naturalresource compliance andoutreach program(including DVDs, signs andbrochures).

Western Snowy Plover.T.A. Blake, USFWS

Naval Base Ventura County, CaliforniaThe natural resources conservation program at NavalBase Ventura County (NBVC) developed and imple-mented three Integrated Natural Resource Management

Giant coreopsis in bloom on San Nicolas Island. Through partnershipswith universities and cooperating agencies, San Nicolas Island is the site of several long-term monitoring projects including the federally endangered black abalone.Francesca Ferrara

Naval Base Coronado’s natural resources programsuccessfully manages 31 federally listed species ofplants, animals, and their habitats—one of thehighest concentrations on DoD lands.

The San Clemente Island fox was listed by the U.S. Fish and

Wildlife Service (USFWS) on four of the eight Channel

Islands, but it was not listed on San Clemente Island due

to proactive management by the Navy. In 2012, NBC

successfully transferred threeinjured/orphaned island foxes

to California zoos to supporteducation and research for this unique species.

M. Booker

Plans as the basis for managing thenatural resources at NBVC’s threeoperating facilities: Point Mugu, PortHueneme, and San Nicolas Island.Point Mugu Lagoon provides ahabitat for six federally listed speciesand San Nicolas Island is home tothree federally listed threatened andendangered species.

NBVC coordinates with tenantcommands to carry out severalenvironmental initiatives, includinga marine mammal program, endan-gered species monitoring andhabitat restoration, long-term birdcommunity surveys, climatechange/sea level rise studies, birdaircraft strike hazard and raptorrelocation programs, and renova-tions to the San Nicolas Islandnursery compound—which hasbeen developing native plant stockto be used for erosion control,restoration projects, and habitat forlisted species.

The Cultural Resources Management awards recognize efforts to promote Navystewardship of cultural resources, including archaeological sites, historic builtenvironment, and cultural landscapes, through cultural resources managementinitiatives and partnerships with stakeholders.

instaLLation Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) recognizes cultural resourcesmanagement as an integral part of host nation relations and its ability tosuccessfully perform its mission. During the awards period, CFAY promotedcultural resources management and cross-cultural communication throughextensive networking with local officials, professionals, private citizens, andorganizations to convey cultural sensitivities and inspire mutual respect amongmilitary personnel and their Japanese hosts.


A federally endangered adult California Least Tern incubating a nest at NBVC

Point Mugu. A colonial nesting species,California Least Terns return to beaches on base each year during the breeding

season. The colony at Point Mugu is one of the five largest in the state,

making it an important element in the survival and recovery of the species.

Francesca Ferrara

Carrying the portable shrine (called a Mikoshi) is a traditional event in Japanese society. CFAY has participated in this annual ritual for 40 years. The Mikoshi shrine will be carried upon the shoulders of DoD military and civilian personnel from downtown Yokosuka onto the Yokosuka Naval Complex. Paul Long

CULTURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT


CFAY’s efforts to preserve cultural assets include discov-ering assets and preserving them in place or donatingthem to local museums; giving base historical tours;indexing and cataloging cultural and historical assets; andcampaigning to create awareness through local media andvolunteer programs. Additionally, CFAY has preservednumerous non-military historical shrines, tombs, andarcheological sites dating back to the Paleolithic era.

Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada NAS Fallon is home to the Navy’s TOPGUN program and isthe only Navy installation that provides advanced carrierair wing strike training. NAS Fallon’s cultural resourcemanager is responsible for all archaeological and historicalresources on the main station and ranges. In 2011 and2012, NAS Fallon inventoried over 11,000 acres for archae-ological resources and identified 196 archaeological sites,increasing the total number of sites at the installation byalmost 50 percent to 621.

Historic preservation efforts continued with the evaluationof four historic structures for the National Register ofHistoric Places and a historic district on NAS Fallon’straining ranges. Other initiatives include public outreach bypresenting research papers at seven professional confer-

ences and public meetings, and collaborating with stateagencies to install custom safety gates at 10 historic minesto ensure the closures were both bat-compatible and sensi-tive to the mines’ historic integrity.

individuaL or team Former Naval Weapons Station Concord, California(Cultural Resources Management Team)Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Concord was identified forclosure in 2005 and the Navy is now proposing transfer ofapproximately 5,000 acres of NWS Concord to local agen-cies for redevelopment. Between December 2011 andAugust 2012, the Naval Facilities Engineering Command(NAVFAC) Headquarters Base Realignment and ClosureProgram Management Office successfully completedNative American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act(NAGPRA) consultation with Native American tribesregarding the former NWS Concord.

By developing and implementing a consultation planbased upon interest-based negotiation, sensitivity to tribal

Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosukahas preserved numerous non-military

historical shrines, tombs, and archeological sites

dating back to the Paleolithic era.

Tours of archaeological sites have been an effective means ofpromoting preservation at NAS Fallon. Military personnel gainan appreciation for archaeology that can only by gained byseeing sites first hand. Here, personnel tour “Hill 16,” a Paleoarchaic site estimated to be 9,000 years old.

The Range B-16 control tracker building was constructed in 1960.Designed by the architectural firm of DeLongchamps and O’Brien, it and the B-16 spotting towers may be the only examples of militaryarchitecture designed by this firm. The structure is currently undergoingevaluation for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.Additional research is now underway to determine the significance of the architects’ contribution to military architecture.

histories and cultures, and a commitmentto Navy mission, the team forged lastingtrust and consensus with tribal stake-holders, finished the archaeological field-work on time and within budget, andconducted proactive communication thatresulted in a NAGPRA plan of action. Theteam’s efforts expedited the mission-critical schedule, realized cost-savings, andled to new, collaborative partnerships withthree Native American tribes.

Mr. Lon Bulgrin, Naval Base Guam, MarianasNaval Base Guam’s (NBG) cultural resources management program aims tosafeguard and manage irreplaceable cultural and historic assets and proper-ties spanning 4,000 years of human history, while supporting missionrequirements. As NBG’s cultural resources manager, Mr. Bulgrin has devel-oped working relationships with government and private agencies to ensurethe proper management of more than 2,000 historical properties. He alsoadvises stakeholders on conducting exercises on National Historic Landmarks


Prehistoric beads, similar to those depicted in thisphoto, were discovered during the 2012 fieldwork at

the former NWS Concord. Typically comprised ofshell or animal bone, these beads were used for

trade and in ceremonies. Analysis of beads like these will assist in dating and

interpretation of the archaeological sites.

Mr. Bulgrin provided intensive support for numerous military exercises conductedthroughout Joint Region Marianas. The Japanese WWII Air Administration Building is acontributing element to the North Field National Historic Landmark on Tinian, and was

temporarily modified and used to simulate a terrorist compound during the Tempest Wind exercise. This exercise involved a variety of Special Forces, including Navy SEALs,

Army Rangers, Delta operators, and elements of the Australian Air Special Service. Lon Bulgrin

The barrel of a Model 88, 75-mm gun was discovered during trenching for the NBGwastewater system project upgrade. This WWII Japanese weapon served a dual role as an antiaircraft and coast-defense gun. Mr. Bulgrin implemented standard operatingprocedures for its inadvertent discovery, which allowed the completion of the wastewatersystem upgrade without any further delays or additional costs to the Navy.

Archaeological fieldwork underway at the formerNWS Concord. To support the Navy’s implementation

of the NAGPRA plan of action, a Navy archaeologistand cultural resources manager oversaw the

fieldwork. Three Native American specialists assistedin the identification of NAGPRA cultural items and

properties of religious or cultural significance.


and using buildings of historicsignificance. Mr. Bulgrin’saccomplishments includesuccessfully completingupgrades to the NBG archaeo-logical and historical collections,implementing standard oper-ating procedures for the inadver-tent discovery of a Japanese World War II (WWII) artillery,and completing the Historical American EngineeringRecord for the Ma’anot Reservoir, which will allow demoli-tion of the structure and construction of new and efficientinfrastructure that will provide water to Guam.

Naval Support Activity Monterey, California (Cultural Resources Management Team)Naval Support Activity (NSA) Monterey is home to 15tenants, including the Naval Research LaboratoryMonterey, Fleet Numerical Meteorological and Oceano-graphic Center, and the Naval Postgraduate School.NSA Monterey’s cultural resources management teamimplemented an Integrated Cultural ResourcesManagement Plan to provide a framework and toensure compliance with preservation laws whilesupporting mission requirements.

NSA Monterey’s accomplishments include restoring theRoman Plunge and SolariumComplex, finalizing theHistoric Building MaintenancePlan for Herrmann Hall,reusing historic cottages forcommand functions, meetingsustainability goals, andinstalling interpretative signageto enhance cultural resources.

Guests at the luxurious Hotel Del Monte enjoyed recreation at the RomanPlunge in this circa 1918 photo. This photograph served as the basis forrestoration of the structure. The original murals lining the solarium areevident and were used as a key design element in the restoration. Historic photo courtesy of Pebble Beach Company

Elements in the Hotel Del MonteHistoric District, the Roman Plunge Pool, and adjacent Solarium were

renovated in FY11/FY12 in consultationwith the local historic society. The

project, designed to reflect the original 1918 aesthetic, earned NSA Monterey

a 2012 California PreservationFoundation Award for Restoration. The Roman Plunge area, used forcommand functions and Morale,

Welfare, and Recreation events, is aprime example of adaptive reuse.

Jim McCord

Naval Base Guam’s cultural resources managementprogram aims to safeguard and manage irreplaceable cultural and historic assetsand properties spanning 4,000 years of human history.

The Environmental Quality awards recognize efforts toensure mission accomplishment and protection of humanhealth through sound environmental practices in the areasof environmental planning, waste management, and safedrinking water.

industriaL instaLLation Fleet Logistics Center Puget Sound, Washington(Manchester Fuel Department)The Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Puget Sound ManchesterFuel Department provides bulk fuel, lubricants, and wasteoil removal services to fleet forces in the Pacific Northwest.The fuel department established a unique EnvironmentalManagement System (EMS) that incorporates the entireworkforce and organizations (operations, maintenance,security, engineering, environmental, quality assurance,and administration) to meet environmental goals.

Under the EMS, the fuel department developed innova-tions in spill response operations and pollution preven-tion/treatment; restored a salmon-bearing stream throughnatural resource infrastructure improvements and innova-

tive partnerships with stakeholders; and has led effortsthroughout the northwest to convert lighting to Light Emit-ting Diodes (LED), significantly saving disposal, mainte-nance, and energy costs.


Fish passage impediments were removed fromBeaver Creek to allow for the free movement of

spawning salmon. As part of the final phase ofthe Beaver Creek project, a new bridge was

installed that ensures the continued use of theroad for operational purposes and allows free

movement of fish throughout Beaver Creek.

Biofuels for the Great Green Fleet demonstration were transferredfrom trucks to segregated barges before being blended and issued. A total of 972,000 gallons of blended fuel was provided.

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY


The fuel department also supported the Navy’sGreat Green Fleet Demonstration initiative in July2012 by accumulating (from commercial sources)and providing 972,000 gallons of 50/50 biofuel/traditional hydrocarbon blended fuel to the Rim ofthe Pacific 2012 exercise.

Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, California NWS Seal Beach is home to some of the lastremaining coastal wetlands and the Seal BeachNational Wildlife Refuge. NWS Seal Beach created afully integrated environmental review process,which improved compliance, streamlined execution,and identified environmental opportunities. Accom-plishments during the awards period includereducing electricity usage and water consumption,increasing renewable energy, reducing compliancedeficiencies by 80 percent, dramatically improvinghazardous waste management, improving environ-mental training, and exceeding Executive Ordersustainability goals in the areas of energy, water,and solid waste.

U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan RegionalMaintenance Center, Yokosuka, JapanThe U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional Mainte-nance Center (SRF-JRMC), located at Yokosuka and Sasebo,Japan, executes a comprehensive environmental program basedon its EMS to mitigate negative operations impacts on themission or Japan’s natural resources. During the award period,SRF-JRMC implemented an “Energy Conservation Passport”program as part of continuing energy conservation efforts, andproactively executed solid waste recycling events in coordinationwith the Yokosuka qualified recycling program Office. Effortscollected over 20,000 pounds in a two-year period and decreased

USS Milius (DDG 69) and USS Curts (FFG 38)conduct simultaneous ordnance operations at the NWS Seal Beach wharf. The basesupported the safe movement of over 43,000 tons of munitions during FY12.Gregg Smith

Robert Schallmann, NWS Seal Beach conservation manager, teaches third graders about wildlife on the installation and the Navy’s environmental programs.Edgar Espinoza

The 2012 SRF-JRMC solid waste collection event generated 13,000 pounds ofrecyclable material, which were processed through the qualified recyclingprogram. Profits from recycling were returned to CFAY tenants. Keiichi Adachi

NWS Seal Beach supported thesafe movement of over 43,000

tons of munitions during FY12.

frequency of improper solid waste disposal findings. SRF-JRMC improved in-house wastewater treatment capabilityby partnering with Navy personnel to share informationand test water treatment systems and utilized cross-func-tional EMS teams to improve environmental programs.

overseas instaLLation Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan CFAS serves as a logistic support center for forwarddeployed units and visiting operational forces of the U.S.Pacific Fleet and its tenant activities. During the awardsperiod, CFAS expanded its robust EMS program,increased solid waste diversion rates, and dramaticallycut non-compliance deficiencies. CFAS made significantcontributions to the DoD’s recycling revenues,accounting for 4.3 percent of the DoD’s $14 million inrecyclable revenue in FY10. CFAS also increased recy-cling education to the public and implemented programsto capture and recycle used oils, oily waste water, andcooking oils.

Navy Region Center Singapore Navy Region Center, Singapore’s (NRCS) environmentalprogram plays an important role in maintaining compli-

ance with U. S. environmental policyand applicable local laws and regula-tions, as well as enhancing the quality oflife of the facility’s population. Throughcontinued efforts, NRCS fully evaluatedall major and minor aspects of processesand developed/established 19 workprocesses, eight standard operating


CFAS converted 17.9 tons of used paint cans and oil drums from hazardous waste to scrapmetal. Compaction reduces space required during transportation from the disposal center to

the recycling center, resulting in fewer trips. This reduces fuel consumption and costs. Costavoidance totaled $30,789 and sales generated over $9,000 annually for the recycling program.

Thomas Smith

CFAS conducts numerous off base clean-up events such as the one atShirahama Beach in April 2012. Engaging in these interactive projects with

various local and prefectural organizations strengthens the installation’srelationships with communities and our host nation partners.

Over 200 bags of refuse were collected during this outreach event. Thomas Smith

NRCS performed a mosquito trapping study inFY12 with scientists from the Naval MedicalResearch Unit in Singapore and the Duke/NationalUniversity of Singapore. The 11.5-week studycompared which type of trap worked best for the different kinds of mosquitoes in Singapore and collected a total of 33,669 mosquitoes.


procedures, and 17 managementprocedures under the program.

With all the checks and balancesimplemented, the system continuedto find ways to reduce operationalimpacts. NRCS effectively imple-mented environmental complianceprograms, which received no notice ofviolations from local regulators. NRCS achieved EMS datatransition goals into EMSWeb, completed a triennial majorclaimant environmental quality assessment with minimalfindings, implemented an effective solid waste qualifiedrecycling program, and conducted numerous trainingsessions to enhance NRCS’ spill response capability.

U.S. Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy In FY12, NSA Naples implemented and sustained a compre-hensive EMS, which reflected the command’s commitmentto improving environmental program management. NSANaples’s environmental team conducted an EMS andcompliance audit, which verified positive impacts on envi-ronmental compliance. The audit set a high standard for thedevelopment and implementation of innovative approachesto improving environmental protection, increasing base-wide environmental awareness, and ensuring compliancewith applicable regulatory drivers.

NSA Naples’s initiatives includedimplementing base-wide training toimprove EMS and pollution preven-tion awareness; partnering with thebase community to host an Earth Dayevent that had participation from 21tenant commands (each sponsoring abooth focusing on “Partnering for aGreener Future”), decreasing energyconsumption by one percent in FY12,and implementing innovativehazardous waste efforts to recycle 66percent of hazardous waste materials,which resulted in savings of $118,000in waste disposal costs.

NSA Naples’s initiatives included implementinginnovative efforts to recycle 66 percent ofhazardous waste materials, which resulted in savings of $118,000 in waste disposal costs.

Aerial view of the recreational area of Carney Park, located inside the crater of an extinct volcano. The complex is part of the Campi Flegrei Regional Park, which is a European Community Site of Importance. MWR organizes a large part of the facilities’ social and family activities at this location. NSA Naples Public Affairs Office

View of NSA Naples Capodichino with theVesuvius volcano in the background.

Capodichino is the operational facility where all base functions reside. It is adjacent

to the Naples International Airport and has a dedicated area for its flight line.

NSA Naples Public Affairs Office

smaLL ship USS Florida (SSGN 728)Homeported at Naval SubmarineBase Kings Bay, USS Florida (SSGN728) is an Ohio-class guided missilesubmarine with a crew of about 160.Florida’s hazardous material andatmosphere control programs havebecome a template for success in theAtlantic Fleet Submarine force afterthe programs scored above standardson its last three supply managementinspections in FY12. The crew metic-ulously managed a 354 hazardousmaterial/atmosphere contaminantcontrol line item inventory to ensure 240 stock and workcenter inventories were properly executed and processeddirectly, resulting in a 50 percent decrease in expired andexcess material. The crew also conducted over 24 envi-ronmental control program audits. Florida conducted over1,100 hours of environmental awareness training for allcrew members to maximize their attention and aware-ness.

USS Ford (FFG 54)USS Ford (FFG 54) is a Pacific Northwest frigate with multi-faceted mission capabilities and an environmental qualityprogram that is a fundamental pillar of its operationalmantra. All crew members are properly trained on protec-tion and quality requirements to ensure the highest levelsof environmental awareness and compliance. Ford’s solidwaste management program ensured all waste plastics,


A Sailor assigned to the Ohio-class guided-missilesubmarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) heaves a lineashore as the submarine arrives for a port visit on the island of Crete. Paul Farley

Sailors assigned to the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida(SSGN 728) conduct mooring operations as the submarine arrives for

a port visit on the island of Crete.Paul Farley

Gas Turbine System Technician Mechanical Fireman Recruit Podhradsky analyzes a sample

of Ford’s gas turbine engine oil to assure its quality during Ford’s testing of the Naval Sea

Systems Command (NAVSEA) HRF-76 biofuel.


glass, and metals, were processed and disposed of in accordance withcurrent requirements. Also, the crew’s dedication to minimizing environ-mental contamination was demonstrated when Ford’s hazardous mate-rial program passed the stringent 2012 Supply Management Certificationinspection standards. Other accomplishments include participating in theNavy’s experimental biofuels program in March 2012, minimizing emis-sion levels by maintaining equipment in peak operational condition, andemploying continued use of the Protective Measures AssessmentProtocol (PMAP) and Sonar Positional Reporting System to protectmarine mammals and mitigate risks of endangering them.

USS Momsen (DDG 92) Homeported in Everett, Washington, USS Momsen is aproactive steward of the environment. During theawards period, Momsen conducted crew training onenvironmental protection and spill response andmonthly training on eco-friendly procedures for workand home. Momsen’s crew implemented active recy-cling and refuse sorting techniques; maintained theoil/water separator in full operation to ensure liquiddischarges were scrubbed of pollutants; employed pollu-tion prevention measures to prevent hazardous

substance or oil spills; and conductedmonthly inspections to ensure properequipment was onboard and easily acces-sible in case of a spill. Finally, by operatingin the most efficient configurationspossible, Momsen minimized emissions,ensured maximum fuel efficiency, andreduced fuel consumption by as much as10 percent per day.

USS Ford conducts a refueling-at-sea evolution in theSouthern California Operations Area following thetesting of the NAVSEA HRF-76 biofuel.

Gas Turbine Systems Technician Mechanical Third Class Jessica Isazamaintains the Oily Waste Separator. The Oily Waste Separator, a critical

component of Momsen’s environmental protection program, cleans waterof hazardous oils before it is discharged. The crew’s maintenance of the

separator flow totalizer prevents environmental pollution from oily waste.

Engineman First Class Gabriel Mejia recordsobservations of the 200-ton air conditioning plant.Careful observation of refrigeration systemsparameters allows Momsen to take prompt action to protect the equipment and environment.

By operating in the most efficientconfigurations possible, Momsen reduced fuel

consumption by as much as 10 percent per day.

The Sustainability awards recognize efforts to prevent oreliminate pollution at the source through efficient andsustainable use of energy, water, raw materials, and otherresources.

non-industriaLinstaLLation Naval Base San Diego, California Naval Base San Diego (NBSD) is comprised of the wet anddry side naval base, Broadway Complex, Naval MedicalCenter San Diego, and Mission Gorge (Admiral Baker)Recreation Area. NBSD actively promotes an energyconservation culture on the installation and in thesurrounding communities, and executes energy conserva-tion and environmental compliance programs. In coopera-tion with stakeholders, NBSD hosts electronics recyclingevents to collect recyclable electronics and divert materialsfrom hazardous waste landfills. During the awards period,NBSD’s accomplishments include certifying an EMSprogram compliance with International Organization forStandardization (ISO) 14000 guidelines via external inspec-

tion team, which saved 3.2 Million British thermal units(MBtu) of power and $103,000; diverting 44,879 tons ofsolid waste from landfill disposal, which represents a 71.4percent overall diversion rate, and a disposal cost avoid-ance of $942,000.

Naval Station Great Lakes, IllinoisAs the single location for recruit training, Naval Station(NAVSTA) Great Lakes’ mission is to develop men andwomen into highly skilled, disciplined and motivatedSailors for the fleet. NAVSTA Great Lakes accomplishmentsinclude reducing energy consumption by 29 percent, mini-mizing solid waste generation by increasing recycling by114 percent in 2012 compared to 2011, and initiating anelectronic collection and recycling event that resulted in thecollection of over 8,000 pounds diverted from local land-fills. NAVSTA Great Lakes also implemented progressivepollution prevention practices, which reduced regulated airemissions by 17,407 in 2011, a 21 percent reduction as aresult of fuel substitutions, power plant process changes,and green construction. Finally, material substitutions havecontinued to reduce hazardous waste generation by 60


NBSD funded and executed photovoltaic projects to reduce energy use.These projects saved 3.2 MBtu of power and $103,000. LED street andparking lot lights saved an additional 2.2 MBtu of power and $82,000.

Adrianna delos Santos

SUSTAINABILITY


percent from 2008 levels; and toxic wastewaterconcentration were reduced by 99 percentthrough incorporation of industry-leadingdental wastewater treatment systems and useof best management practices.

Naval Support Activity Monterey, CaliforniaDespite being one of the smaller installations within the Navy, NSAMonterey is a leader in sustainable practices and conservation. Thecommand has an energy working group that reviews and plans waterand energy conservation projects. Working group members includethe installation energy manager, utility and energy manager, andsubject matter experts from the public works department. NSAMonterey’s sustainability accomplishments during the awards periodinclude decreasing potable water consumption by 35 percent, main-taining a 74 percent solid waste diversion rate with a constructionand demolition waste diversion rate of over 95 percent, decreasingpesticides use by 60percent compared toFY10, and reclaimingstormwater to provide98 percent, or 8 milliongallons, of irrigation forthe main base.

individuaL or team Mr. Matthew Schreck, Fleet ReadinessCenter Southwest, CaliforniaFleet Readiness Center Southwest(FRCSW) provides aviation maintenance,repair, and overhaul support to the U.S.and allied warfighters. To support thiseffort, FRCSW operates a multitude ofindustrial processes, including electro-

The green parts washer at NAVSTA Great Lakes’ steam plant uses a biological solution to break down oils; therefore, these parts washers do not generate hazardous waste. Cora Mata

Funding from DoD/National Public Lands Dayprovided the installation the opportunity to constructa pollination garden. With assistance from installationand community volunteers, 80 native plants andbushes were planted. Plants were selected based oninput from the California Native Plant Society inhopes of attracting nocturnal moths. Toni Wills

During the awards period, NAVSTA Great Lakes completeda project rerouting a section of the Skokie River

to improve drainage performance upstream. Craig Harley

Naval Base San Diego hosts electronics recycling events to collect recy-clable electronics and divert materialsfrom hazardous waste landfills.

plating, painting, chemical cleaning and stripping, andjet engine testing, which utilize hazardous materials andgenerate hazardous wastes and emissions. Mr. Schreck,FRCSW’s energy and water conservation manager, exem-plifies the command’s commitment to reduction ofenergy and water. He directly contributes to the missionby ensuring energy resources continue to be available bydirectly managing over $10 million of investment funds.In total, Mr. Schreck saved over17,820 MBtu of energy and over120,000 gallons of water annually. Mr.Schreck’s other accomplishmentsinclude increasing organizationalenergy security, successfullycompleting two dozen energy projectsspanning a multitude of technologiesand process types, and participating inpublic outreach programs.

Navy Region Center Singapore (Environmental Sustainment Team)NRCS’s environmental sustainmentteam uses checks and balances tocontinuously find ways to reduceoperational impacts. The team’sefforts continue to contribute to thecommand’s strategic plan andimproved command readiness. Signifi-cant accomplishments during theaward period include effectivelyimplementing environmental compli-


The C-2 and E-2 aircraft are maintained at FRCSW.

ance programs that received no Notice of Violations(NOV) from local regulators, achieving EMS data transi-tion goals into EMSWeb, implementing an effective solidwaste qualified recycling program, installing over 1,700backflow preventer devices to ensure protection of watersupply, conducting numerous training sessions and drillsto enhanced spill response capability, and implementingan outreach program to local communities.

NRCS participated as one of 125 community partners to celebration Singapore World WaterDay on 24 March 2012. More than 25,000 people participated at 15 locations island-wide.

The event was officiated by Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Dr. VivianBalakrishnan from the Ministry of the Environmental and Water Resources, and others

to raise awareness on the importance of caring for water and water sustainability. Rear Admiral Thomas Carney and Captain Paul Foster were guests of honor and

received a certificate of appreciation for NRCS’ efforts and contribution to the event. Latt Aung Zaw


PMA-231 Environment, Safety, and OccupationalHealth Team, MarylandHawkeye, Advanced Hawkeye, and GreyhoundProgram Office (PMA-231) Environment, Safety, andOccupational Health (ESOH) Team has employed inno-vative, highly effective strategies resulting in thedramatic reduction of the environmental footprint ofthe E-2 platform. The team ensures effective ESOHintegration into the development, manufacture, use,maintenance, and disposal of PMA-231 aircraftsystems. E-2 is the first carrier-based aircraft to testnon-chromate primer on the entire aircraft exterior.

Several non-chromate primer E-2Cs successfullycompleted carrier deployments; post-cruise inspectionsconcluded robust primer performance and confirmed“drop-in” maintainability. Pending continued demon-stration success, non-chromate primer will be imple-mented on E-2/C-2 Fleet and E-2D production aircraft,avoiding lifetime use of over 20,000 pounds of chro-

mate primer. Other accomplishments include reducingenergy consumption by 35 percent compared to the2006 baseline through expansion of lighting managementand building automation systems programs and reducingwater usage by 185,000 gallons per year through theSaint Agnes Medical Center water conservation andquality program.

NRCS and the base operating support contractor performed annual spill drill exercises to maintain response capability including a simulated spill in one of the warehouses on base. The respondersare rated based on their job description (primary/cross-train), skills in containment, cleanup, and decontamination, response time, personal protective equipment selection, and their decision making process.

A plane director aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D.Eisenhower (CVN 69) gives signals to the pilot of an E-2C Hawkeye toposition the aircraft on the catapult. The current version of the Hawkeye,the E-2C, became operational in 1973, and surpassed one million flighthours in 2004. The aircraft has undergone several upgrades to its activeand passive sensors, engines, and propellers. MC2 Miguel Angel Contreras

E-2 is the first carrier-based aircraft to test non-chromate

primer on the entire aircraft exterior.

The Environmental Restoration awards recognize efforts toprotect human health and the environment by cleaning upcontamination from past activities at Navy sites in atimely, cost-efficient, and responsive manner.

instaLLation Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, MaineThe Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) has been challengedto accelerate the installation restoration (IR) program toachieve the goal of having all remedies in place by FY14.The PNSY IR program completed a removal action for a sitelocated within a historic building, which will facilitate anenergy and renovation project that will ultimately enablelong-term adaptive reuse of the historic building. PNSYmoved rapidly from project work plan development toremedial action completion for manual removal of 3,650square feet of lead-contaminated soil located beneath atidally-influenced building crawl space in a mission criticalarea. PNSY also partnered with academic researchers toprovide sediments from offshore areas in the PNSY IR insupport of two DoD Strategic Environmental Research andDevelopment Program projects. Additionally, PNSYenhanced public outreach through quarterly RestorationAdvisory Board (RAB) meetings, a community involvementplan update, and annual site management plan updates.

Naval Base Point Loma,CaliforniaThe mission of Naval BasePoint Loma (NBPL) is to enableand sustain readiness throughreliable shore support whilepreserving the criticalresources necessary to securethe future of our forces. NBPLhas an active RAB that is in itsthird year. The RAB has tenactive members, as well asNavy and regulatory agencies,and meets bi-monthly. NBPL isresponsible for 1,869.5 acresof federal property, to include37 IR program sites, 20 ofwhich are open, and theremaining 17 sites are closed.

NBPL’s accomplishmentsinclude phase two remedialinvestigation sampling and pilot

studies for ground water enhanced anaerobic bioremedia-tion and soil vapor remediation (IR program sites 10 and11); regulatory site closure with no further action forsubmarine base; continued long-term maintenance and


ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION

Anaerobic water, vegetable oil, and dehalococcodies bacteria have beenmixed and injected into the groundwater to remediate groundwatercontamination. This is part of a pilot study using Enhanced AnaerobicBioremediation at IRP sites 9 and 23. After injection is completed, thearea is opened back up to traffic flow and parking, minimizingremediation impacts to the surrounding tenants.Steve Blanchard

PNSY’s Building 184 concrete tank vault was historically lined with acid-proofbricks and cement. After conducting site visits in November 2011, federal and

state regulatory agencies agreed that a no further action decision wasappropriate for Site 30 based on the excellent condition of the vault.

Frederick Matthew Thyng


monitoring of native plant siterestoration on three sites; andfinal focused feasibility studyand proposed plan for Old Towncampus IR sites 1 and 9. Thecombined efforts of NBPLpersonnel, local agencies, andcitizens have produced signifi-cant environmental restoration achievements during thisperiod and established a firm foundation for furtherachievements in the years to come.

St. Juliens Creek Annex, VirginiaSt. Juliens Creek Annex’s (SJCA) environmental restora-tion program addresses both IR and munitions responseprogram sites. Out of 59 potentially contaminated sites,only four IR sites and one munitions restoration siteremain active in the SJCA environmental restorationprogram, two of which have their final remedies inplace and only require land use controls and moni-toring. SJCA’s accomplishments include applying greenremediation concepts that focus on material reuse andoffsite disposal minimization; completing a removalaction that ultimately returned 23 acres of land to thefacility with unrestricted use; increasing RAB interestand meeting attendance; and completing the remedialaction-construction phase with results indicating conta-minants are now below the cleanup goal at 21 of the 30monitoring wells.

A Soil Vapor Extraction (SVE) system for remediation of contaminatedsoil vapors is tested at NBPL Old Town campus. SVE rapidly reducedcontamination levels and demonstrated the effectiveness of aninnovative technology at IR Sites 10 and 11. Steve Blanchard

During the non-time critical removal action at SJCA IR Site 5, excavatedsoil and sediment were loaded from the materials handling area into a

dump truck for offsite disposal after quality control and qualityassurance activities confirmed that materials greater than 1-inch

in diameter had been removed. A total of 32,960 tons of soil and sediment were transported and disposed of offsite.

Nathaniel Price

Site restoration was performed at SJCA following completion of theexcavation and backfilling components of the non-time-critical removal action conducted at IR Site 5. Site restoration included the replacement of the driveway to a building that is located adjacent to the site and repairing the asphalt along the portion of a road that was damaged from the haul truck traffic.

Naval Base Point Loma’s accomplishments includephase two remedial investigation sampling and pilotstudies for ground water enhanced anaerobicbioremediation and soil vapor remediation.

The Environmental Excellence in Weapon System Acquisi-tion, Small Program awards recognize efforts to incorporateESOH requirements into the weapon system acquisitionprogram’s system engineering, contracting, and decision-making processes.

individuaL or team NAVAIR 1.6 Programmatic Environment, Safety, and Occupational Health Evaluation DocumentAuthoring Tool Team, MarylandThe mission of the Naval Air Systems Command(NAVAIR) Environmental Programs Department (AIR-1.0Team) is to create environmental excellence by applyingsmartly designed processes and tools to help acquisitionprograms deliver systems that meet fleet operationalneeds with reduced ESOH constraints. The AIR-1.0 Teamassists acquisition programs with cost-effective ESOHefforts using the Programmatic ESOH Evaluation(PESHE) Document Authoring Tool (DAT). The tool wasdeployed in 2007 to facilitate integration of ESOHrequirements and risk management into systems engi-

neering and program decision-making. The web-basedtool standardizes NAVAIR’s ESOH risk-assessmentprocess and development of PESHE documents. Modulesprovide the capability to manage program milestoneevents, develop ESOH risk mitigation plans, track identi-fied hazards, and execute National Environmental PolicyAct (NEPA) requirements.

Metric reporting features allow the AIR-1.0 Team to deter-mine which hazards have the highest likelihood andconsequence, analyze commonalities in environmentalimpacts across acquisition programs, plan for upcomingprogram milestones, and ensure proposed NEPA actionsare completed on time.

A document archival feature allows users to upload theirsigned PESHE and NEPA documents into PESHE DAT. Thisis now NAVAIR’s formal library of key ESOH documents.Automated and effective collaboration among programpersonnel and ESOH subject matter experts is achievedvia the use of PESHE DAT, which facilitates documentreviews and compliance to minimize ESOH risks to theusers of NAVAIR acquisition systems.


ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE IN WEAPONSYSTEM ACQUISITION—SMALL PROGRAM

The T-45 Virtual Mission Training System program implemented polyurethane gaskets in the airborneupper and lower antenna hardware, which improved bonding between the aircraft and antenna,reduced corrosion, and eliminated the polysulfide sealant that contained hexavalent chromium.


The Environmental Planning awards recognize outstandingenvironmental planning efforts that benefit the Navy, theenvironment, and the public at large.

team Northwest Training Range Complex, Washington(Environmental Impact Statement Team)The Northwest Training Range Complex (NWTRC) EISteam completed a three-year EIS/OEIS project with theprimary goal of sustaining critical Navy training andtesting activities in the Pacific Northwest. The EIS/OEISincluded extensive analysis of potential impacts to marinemammals. With deficiencies in existing data, it was neces-sary for the EIS team to proactively develop regionalmarine mammal density information to support theanalysis effort. As part of an extensive outreach effort, theteam participated in numerous meetings with the public,federally recognized tribes, and representatives fromgovernmental agencies.

The team’s openness and responsiveness created a moretrusting climate between the Navy and the public and

improved public understanding of the Navy’s mission andits strong focus on environmental stewardship. Navy envi-ronmental planners now have a better understanding ofthe public’s issues and concerns in this area. The team’sefforts ensured compliance with environmental laws andregulations, including NEPA, the Marine Mammal Protec-tion Act, the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and theCoastal Zone Management Act, for current and futurenaval readiness activities in the NWTRC.

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING

An EA-6B Prowler stationed at NAS Whidbey Island prepares to land aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters

Aviation Ordnance men load sonobuoys before flight activities on a P-3C Orion stationed at NAS Whidbey Island. MC2 Julian R. Moorefield

Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing EnvironmentalPlanning Team, VirginiaThe U.S. Fleet Forces (USFF) Atlantic Fleet Training andTesting (AFTT) environmental planning team was assem-bled to develop an Environmental Impact Statement/Over-seas Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/OEIS) to coverat-sea Navy activities off the east coast and Gulf of Mexicoas part of Phase II of the Navy’s Tactical Training TheaterAssessment and Planning (TAP) program. Although manyEIS/OEISs were developed for at-sea training activities aspart of the first phase of the TAP program, AFTT presentednew complexities.

The team’s accomplishments include adding systemcommand (SYSCOM) research, development, testing,and evaluation activities within the study area to theproposed action; including a suite of activities—previ-ously covered in seven separate EISs—in a singleEIS/OEIS; including ten times the number of acousticsources covered previously; improving connectivity withthe acquisition community to validate SYSCOM activities;and creating greater flexibility in permits to supportongoing, evolving mission requirements. USFFapproached these challenges with a multifacetedstrategy, building on lessons learned from TAP Phase I.

The AFTT team devel-oped and successfullypioneered newprocesses andmethodologiesincluding an effectivemethod of accountingfor mitigation effec-tiveness in post-modeling analyses,significantly reducingoverly conservativeestimates of marinemammal takes; aninnovative method-ology of groupingsources, providinggreater capacity tocover new andchanging require-ments while ensuringpotential environ-mental impacts have

been thoroughly considered; and new PMAP require-ments allowing for the AFTT-required mitigation measuresto be implemented appropriately by both the fleets andSYSCOMs once promulgated.

Silver Strand Training Complex, California(Environmental Impact Statement Project Team)The SSTC is critical to Navy west coast navalamphibious, special warfare, and mine countermeasuretraining due to its proximity to military families.


Peter Hulton and Josh Fredrickerson (Naval Undersea Warfare Center),explain the Navy’s Acoustics Effects Modelat a public meeting for the AFTT EIS/OEIS in Providence, Rhode Island.

California least tern eggs nesting on a SSTC beach area.The least tern is listed asendangered by both USFWS and under the CaliforniaEndangered Species Act. More than half of the U.S. least tern breeding population is located within San Diego County. Jenny Marshall


turtle. Final approval of the SSTC EIS ensured thatSailors and Special Forces have continued access toquality training opportunities at such a vital trainingarea. The team also ensured early and meaningfulinvolvement with the public and regulators. The SSTCEIS team initiated focused interviews with local city offi-cials and regulatory agencies and helped the diversepublic understand the issues in a reader-friendly formatthrough printed fact sheets and online. �

CONTACT

Katherine TurnerChief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division703-695-5073DSN: [email protected]

The objective of the project team’s overall objective wasto ensure fleet readiness and success of the militarymission while minimizing effects on the environment.

In addition to preparing a comprehensive EIS in compli-ance with NEPA and successfully negotiating a BiologicalOpinion and Incidental Harassment Authorization incompliance with the ESA, the team completed an Essen-tial Fish Habitat Assessment, Coastal Consistency Deter-mination, and informal consultation for the green sea

The SSTC EIS team ensured early andmeaningful involvement with

the public and regulators.

SEAL teams conduct Naval Special Warfare Training for clandestine over-the-beach assaults. This activity is an example of training conducted onboth the oceanside boat lanes and bayside training areas to develop specialized, individual mission skills and physical fitness training.

The SSTC EIS team’s efforts ensured that the Navy can continue to fulfill its Title 10 requirements to train and equip a combat ready force while minimizing environmental impacts to SSTC’s sensitive ecosystem.

Eric Logsdon

NAVAL AVIATORS ARE evaluatingenergy-saving refueling practices aspart of a program aimed at standard-izing fleet-driven energy best practicesthat do not adversely impact missionor safety.

The Naval Aviation Energy Conserva-tion (Air ENCON) program is drivingthe fleet-wide implementation ofthese practices across the entire oper-ational spectrum, from training andground operations to maintenanceand flight operations.

“Our goal is to enable the Navy to flymore efficiently by providing options tofleet commanders who manage flighthours,” said Lt. Cmdr. Daniel Quinn, AirENCON program lead, withCommander, Naval Air Force, U.S.Pacific Fleet (CNAP), Force Readiness.The team also includes Commander,Naval Air Force Atlantic (CNAL) andNaval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).

As part of the beta launch runningthrough December 2013, the programdistributes quarterly squadron “energyreport cards” and solicits fleet feed-back and additional energy savingideas, said Michael Olszewski, NAVAIRPropulsion and Power, Air ENCONdeputy program lead.

Air ENCON directly supports theChief of Naval Operations’ goal toincrease efficiency and reduce fuelconsumption afloat by 15 percent by2020. Naval aviation operates more

than 3,700 aircraft that consumemore than 600 million gallons ofpetroleum-based fuels each year.Resource constraints and missionrequirements demand increasedoperational capability be extractedfrom each gallon of fuel.

“Air ENCON is focusing first on thelargest consumers, F/A-18 Hornets

and Super Hornets,” said Quinn, anF/A-18F Weapons Systems officer.Other participating aircraft platformsinclude the H-60 Seahawk, E-2Hawkeye, C-2 Greyhound, EA-6BProwler and P-3C Orion.

“While several energy conservationpractices have been used by carrierair wings and squadrons, they are notpracticed consistently across thefleet,” Quinn said.

“This prompted the Navy Task ForceEnergy, Aviation Working Group to

develop the Air ENCON program,”Olszewski said. In 2011, the NavalAviation Enterprise (NAE) estab-lished the team to identify, validateand institutionalize energy-conserva-tion best practices across the navalaviation community.

“A panel of aviators, engineers andanalysts evaluates operational energyconservation initiatives from across


Fleet Launches Aircraft Energy-SavingInitiatives Air ENCON Program Targets Refueling Practices for Savings

The Air ENCON program distributes quarterly squadron “energy report cards”and solicits fleet feedback and additional energy saving ideas.

—Michael Olszewski


the fleet, industry and acad-emia,” Olszewski said.

“Once validated, the practicesare standardized and incorpo-rated into pre-deploymenttraining,” Quinn said. Fleetfeedback and additional ideasfuel the cycle.

“As the ‘technicalconscience’ of the fleet,NAVAIR ensures that changesin operational behavior donot negatively impactsystem safety, performanceor readiness,” Olszewskisaid. “Our technical respon-sibilities include engineeringsupport, data analysis andrisk management.”

To date, Air ENCON has vali-dated several energy conser-vation practices, includingShort-cycle Mission and RecoveryTanking (SMART) in-flight refueling,and expanded use of mobile refuelingtrucks in place of “hot pit” refuelingstations.

Refueling Carrier-based Aircraft “In 2009, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7pioneered the SMART practice, savingabout 1.7 million gallons of fuelduring 120 fly days,” Quinn said.

“The traditional tanking practicebegan in 2002, when the SuperHornet took over the S-3 Viking roleas in-flight refueling tanker with a ‘5-wet configuration,’” Quinn said.

In a standard tanking configuration,the Super Hornet carries one center-line refueling tank and four auxiliarytanks, totaling about 28,000 pounds or4,118 gallons of fuel. Excessive weightand drag cause the tanker to consumemore fuel than usual, leaving only

Refueling Aircraft AshoreThe truck refueling process was docu-mented at Naval Air Station (NAS)Lemoore, California, where 85percent of mission refueling is deliv-ered by truck instead of by hot pitrefueling.

“Hot pit refueling occurs when anaircraft lands, taxis to a hot pit refu-eling area and waits in line to refuelwith engines running,” Quinn said.

“As much as 70 gallons of fuel isconsumed or wasted while the aircraftwaits to take on 2,000 gallons,” Quinnsaid. “That adds up to millions ofgallons a year.”

With truck refueling, the aircraft shutsdown, and a truck brings the fuel tothe aircraft. However, once theengine is shut down, a turnaroundinspection, which may take up to anhour, must be conducted. “Whiletiming may be an issue that necessi-

F/A-18F Super Hornets perform the SMART refueling practice that saves energy by configuring a Super Hornet tanker with only the centerline refueling tank. The tanker launches to refuel

the aircraft returning from their mission then lands within about 20 minutes. Referred to as “Yo-yo Tanking” in the fleet, this method delivers up to 5,000 pounds

of fuel per tanker without incurring undue drag, weight or efficiency penalties. MC Specialist Seaman Zachary A. Anderson

about 5,000 pounds or 735 gallons offuel to refuel other aircraft.

“Once launched, the Hornet tankerremains airborne for the completemission, or sortie, cycle of about 1.5hours—burning fuel the entire time,”Quinn explained. In addition, fuel thatis not transferred in flight must beconsumed or jettisoned for the tankerto achieve a safe landing weight.

In comparison, a Super Hornet in aSMART configuration carries only thecenterline refueling pod and 14,000pounds or 2,059 gallons of fuel.

The tanker launches to refuel theaircraft returning from their missionthen lands within about 20 minutes.“Referred to as “Yo-yo Tanking” inthe fleet, this method can still deliverup to 5,000 pounds of fuel pertanker without incurring undue drag,weight or efficiency penalties,”Quinn said.

Air ENCON, visit http://airencon.dodlive.mil. �

CONTACTS

LCDR Daniel QuinnCommander, Naval Forces Pacific619-545-4347DSN: [email protected]

Michael OlszewskiNaval Air Systems Command301-342-0842DSN: [email protected]

tates hot pit refueling, a flightschedule can be built around truckrefueling,” said Quinn.

Air ENCON’s goal is to encourageother naval air stations, such as NASOceana, Virginia, to use truck refu-eling 85 to 88 percent of the time.

“It’s an easy sell,” Quinn said.“Without infrastructure, capital ormanpower investment, about 240,000gallons per year can be saved at NASOceana alone. Other facilities wouldachieve additional savings.”

Culture Change“Thanks to Air ENCON, the word isgetting out and the culture ischanging. The Fleet ReadinessTraining Plan (FRTP) now requires oneday of SMART training as part of asquadron’s pre-deployment training,”said Quinn.

The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV)has said energy management will bea mandatory Commanding Officer

Fitness Report andCounseling Record(FITREP) element.

“Air ENCON empha-sizes the strategicimportance ofconserving energy,”Quinn said. “While wehave been accustomedto having plenty of fuelavailable, it may notalways be the case.”

Saving fuel also giveswarfighters more tactical options,such as more time loitering, moretime to stay on post to support aconvoy on the ground, or more timeon the training range.

Air ENCON plans to implement theprogram fleetwide in January 2014 foractive-duty Navy squadrons. The U.S.Marine Corps has also expressedinterest in future collaboration.

To submit an energy conservationidea or for more information on


Air ENCON emphasizes the strategic importance of conserving energy.—Lt. Cmdr. Daniel Quinn

An EA-6B Prowler and an F/A-18E Super Hornet perform a refueling exercise during an air power demonstration aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).

MC Specialist Seaman Jose L. Hernandez

ave some good news about your environmental or energyprogram? Want to share it with others? Currents is the place to do

it. Currents, the Navy’s official energy and environmental magazine,has won first place in the Navy’s Chief of Information Merit awardscompetition three times. And it’s people like you and the stories yousubmit that make Currents the best magazine in the Navy.

So if you have a story that you’d like us to promote in our winter2014 issue, you’ll need to submit your text and images by Friday, 18 October 2013. Any submissions received after this date will beconsidered for our spring 2014 issue.

You can get a copy of the Currents article template by sending an email to Bruce McCaffrey, our Managing Editor, [email protected]. This template has proven to be a tremendous asset in helping us edit and track your articlesubmissions. And your chances of being published in Currents aredramatically increased if you use this template and submit all ofyour images as separate documents. And don’t worry. If writingisn’t your cup of tea, we’ll handle all of the editing necessary toget your submission into publishable form.

Bruce is also available at 773-376-6200 if you have anyquestions or would like to discuss your story ideas.

As a reminder, your Public Affairs Officer must approve yourarticle before we can consider it for inclusion in the magazine.

Don’t forget to “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook/navycurrents. Currents’ Facebook page helps expand thereach of the magazine and spread the news about all thegreat work you’re doing as the Navy’s energy andenvironmental stewards. Your experiences take on newmeaning when you share them with the Currents readershipand on Facebook.

Your experiences take on new meaning when you share themwith the Currents readership and on Facebook.

Be Part of the Navy’s Best Magazine...Submit Your Article by 18 October

Currents DeadlinesWinter 2014 Issue: Friday, 18 October 2013Spring 2014 Issue: Friday, 17 January 2014Summer 2014 Issue: Friday, 18 April 2014Fall 2014 Issue: Friday, 18 July 2014

You can also refer to your Currents calendar forreminders about these deadlines.

H

ROBUST SEASONAL ANDmonthly analysis of sound propaga-tion levels have enabled personnelfrom Naval Air Weapons Station(NAWS) China Lake, California todevelop and execute a solid plan thatminimizes impacts to the surroundingcommunities of the sound generatedduring open detonation events.

NAWS China Lake is the Navy’slargest Research, Development,Acquisition, Test, and Evaluationfacility for weapons developmentand testing. As a result of its missionactivities, China Lake generates a

diverse and explosive wastestream—most of which is destroyed via opendetonation (OD).

In order to comply with environ-mental and safety regulations, theCalifornia Environmental ProtectionAgency required China Lake to applyfor a Part B permit—a modification ofthe base’s existing hazardous wastefacility permit. The Part B permitapplication developed by NAWSpersonnel addressed mitigation ofpotential human health risks andenvironmental impacts of OD events,including noise. The Part B permit

was granted in 2008, and the noiseanalysis was begun as a condition ofthat permit.

Sources of noise at China Lakeinclude airfield operations, aircraftflights (both subsonic and super-sonic), sonic booms, and ordnancedetonation at test and target sites.These activities can create high noiselevels which may impact surroundingareas. An Air Installation CompatibleUse Zones (AICUZ) program plan isused to achieve compatibilitybetween the NAWS China Lake and surrounding communities by


Mitigating Noise from Open Detonations at China LakeSeasonal & Monthly Analyses Lead to Plan that Minimizes Impacts to Local Communities

Location of China Lake. Lauren Zellmer

The Basics About China Lake

NAWS CHINA LAKE is the principal Navy research,development, test, and evaluation center for airwarfare systems (except antisubmarine warfaresystems) and missile weapons systems. The NAWSmanages and conducts the complete weapon develop-ment process, from concept formulation through theentire lifetime of a weapon system, including fleet andproduction support. Nearly every significant Navy andMarine Corps airborne weapon system in the past fivedecades was developed and/or tested at China Lake.


BECAUSE A LARGE percentage of energetic hazardouswaste (EHW) generated at China Lake is either hazardous,incompletely classified, or altered by research and develop-ment activities, Federal and Navy regulations prohibitthe transport of most of this EHW via public roadways.As a result, most of this EHW must be treated onboardChina Lake.

Currently, OD is the primary and preferred method oftreating EHW at China Lake. Open burning can also beconducted; however, hazard analyses have determinedthat OD is the preferable method for treating sensitiveresearch compounds and damaged ordnance items.China Lake operates one site to conduct all of its ODevents. This single site is environmentally desirablebecause the base itself covers a huge landmass, andmuch of the surrounding land is either owned orcontrolled by the United States government. The aridlandscape and deep groundwater level—more than 400feet below surface—minimizes the risk of soil andgroundwater contamination, and the nearest surfacewater is four miles away, on base property. Additionally,the site is located in rocky terrain outside of the knownhabitat of the desert tortoise.

Nationwide, many OD treatment facilities bury wasteitems to mitigate blast effects and noise. However, thismethod prevents the complete conversion of toxiccompounds to nontoxic compounds. To ensure that toxiccompounds are completely neutralized, a larger amount of

donor explosive and exposure to air are needed. This ispossible at China Lake because the base is so large, and itsOD facility is seven miles from the base’s fenceline.

The Basics About Open Detonation

Location of the OD site in China Lake’s north range. Lauren Zellmer

managing noise. (See our sidebar entitled, “TheBasics About Air Installation Compatible UseZones.”) However, this plan applies to aircraft andtraining-related noise only—hence the need for aseparate sound analysis.

Conducting the Noise Analysis The noise analysis mandated by the permit Bapplication was a collaborative effort amongpersonnel from China Lake and Wyle Laboratories.Wyle used Noise Model Simulation (NMSim) andground elevation data for the area, as well as theNoise Assessment Prediction Capability (NAPS)developed by the U.S. Army. This software

provides an estimate of the surface peak noiseintensity in all directions surrounding a blastsource while accounting for meteorological andtopographical variations.

The effort began by dividing single-blast effectsinto “annoyance” and “structural damage” cate-gories. A threshold for annoyance events, alsoknown as “knick-knack shakers,” has been estab-lished by the American National Standards Insti-tute at 120 decibels (dB). This is roughly the noiselevel of a jet engine. The lowest documentedthreshold for structural damage is 128 dB. ThoughNAWS China Lake’s permit only required ananalysis of blasts with the potential for structural

to the actual weight of explosive. 22,500 pounds NEW isthe TNT-equivalent of 15,000 pounds.)

Atmospheric conditions can have a strong effect on soundpropagation, particularly over long distances. Whilehumidity and temperature have a substantial effect onsound propagation, temperature inversions and positivewind gradients have a greater effect.

A temperature inversion means that temperatures are coolerat ground level and warmer at higher altitudes. Sound canrefract or bend downward during temperature inversionconditions and/or when the propagation is downwind.


damage, both thresholds were used in thenoise analysis for the OD facility.

How Noise TravelsNoise from OD consists of vibrations fromblasts traveling from the source to thereceiver through the ground and air. Sincethe OD facility is approximately ten milesfrom the nearest towns (Trona and Ridge-crest), ground-borne vibration from ODevents is unlikely to be sufficient to cause structuraldamage. Therefore, the noise analysis focused onairborne vibrations.

To determine the conditions under which airborne vibra-tions were likely to travel farthest, historical meteorolog-ical data were collected and organized into the fourseasons of the year.

Utilizing the maximum allowable OD blast of 22,500pounds Net Explosive Weight (NEW), the analysis deter-mined that peak sound levels exceed the 128 dB thresholdoff-China Lake only during the winter season. (NEW refers

IN THE EARLY days of aviation, militaryairfields were situated in remote areas, farfrom civilian populations. However, in thepost-World War II baby boom, communi-ties began to encroach upon militarybases. This type of encroachmentincreased the safety risk and level ofannoyance experienced by civilian popula-tions. Navy experience over the years hasdemonstrated that the presence of thesefactors invariably results in restrictionsbeing imposed on the conduct of militaryoperations, thereby adversely impactingthe ability of an installation to fulfill itsmission. In the early 1970s, the Depart-ment of Defense (DoD) initiated theAICUZ program to address this problem.Each base with an operational airfield isrequired by DoD instruction 4165.57 todevelop an AICUZ study.

In an AICUZ study, noise exposure zones andaccident potential zones are generated fromcomputer models and historical operationaldata. These zones are used as planning toolsfor installation and local government agenciesin an effort to prevent development or landuses that could endanger aircraft or thepublic in the vicinity of the airfield.

The China Lake AICUZ study, for example,addressed the following considerationswhen issuing land use recommendations:

� Lighting (direct or reflected) thatwould impair pilot vision

� Towers, tall structures, and vegetationthat penetrate navigable airspace orare to be constructed near the airfield

� Land uses that would generatesmoke, steam, or dust

� Land uses that would attract birds,especially waterfowl

� Electromagnetic interference withaircraft communications, navigation,or other electrical systems

Once noise exposure zones and accidentpotential zones (APZ) are determined inan AICUZ study, command personnel turnto Chief of Naval Operations Instruction11010.36C, “Air Installations CompatibilityUse Zones Program,” for land-usecompatibility recommendations. Forexample, manufacturing may be allowedin zones where residential development isdiscouraged.

The China Lake AICUZ has a detailed land-use plan, based on three different noisezones and two APZs.

The Basics About Air Installation Compatible Use Zones

Pile of EHW ready for OD treatment. Lauren Zellmer


View of the OD blast site from a distance of one mile. Lauren Zellmer

In this condition, the temperature increases closer to the ground.Temperature lapse favors sound refraction up and away from

the ground, reducing the ability of sound to travel.

It was found that sound traveled furthest in winter, exceeding peakthreshold sound levels of 128 dB in an area off-China Lake.

(Bold lines represent 128dB; gold lines represent base boundaries.)

Temperature Gradient

A positive wind speed gradient is a condi-tion when wind speed increases withincreasing altitude. This condition alsocauses sound waves to refract, pushingthem greater distances.

Assessing the DataSeveral years of meteorological data werecollected and examined. The seasonal datawere first examined to determine when atemperature inversion was present.Temperature inversion was not found to bepresent in any average seasonal data,including winter.

The temperature gradient plotted on thechart at right describes a condition calledtemperature lapse, which is the oppositeof temperature inversion.

The seasonal meteorological data was nextexamined to determine when a positivewind gradient was present. All seasonsindicated a positive wind gradient.

The rate of increase during the spring,summer, and fall seasons is not significantto produce downward refraction. The rateof increase is, however, significant duringthe winter season, increasing sound propa-gation along the ground. This positive windspeed gradient during the winter season isthe primary contributing meteorologicalcondition to off-China Lake noise levels.


These maps demonstrate how peak sound levels in December, January and February occasionally reached 128 dB in surrounding

communities (see bold lines). Note that the contours for February arequite different than those for December and January. This difference is

probably due to a smaller set of metrological data for February ascompared to the data set for December and January.

Next, monthly metrological data were examined to calcu-late peak sound levels during each winter month(December, January, and February). All three wintermonths show positive wind gradients. While no significanttemperature inversions are indicated, it is important tonote that strong temperature inversions may be presentduring certain times of a particular day (most typicallymornings). Strong inversions produce significant down-ward refraction of sound waves, and longer distancesound propagation.

It was found that a positive wind gradient is likely to causedownward refraction of sound waves and longer distancesound propagation during all the winter months for anormal 22,500-pound event.

Increasing the size of the blast did not appear toincrease sound propagation significantly. Although blastevents are limited to 22,500 NEW at China Lake, largerblasts of 100,000 and 250,000 pounds NEW weremodeled on an experimental basis. The results show asimilarity of contours.

The FindingsAfter collecting and analyzing more than three years’worth of meteorological data, it was determined that the

potential for unacceptable off-China Lake noiseexposure for single-event detonations is driven bytwo adverse weather conditions:

1. Temperature inversion

2. Positive wind gradient (winds 15 miles perhour (mph) or greater directed toward a popu-lated area)

Temperature inversion is typically not a factorbetween 10:00 am and sundown. Because almostall OD events occur after 10:00 am, temperatureinversion is not considered in OD event planning.

The Mitigation PlanTo assure acceptance of their noise mitigationplan, officials at China Lake worked closely withthe local regulator from the State of California

Department of Toxic Substances Control, utilizingWyle as a facilitator. The plan stipulates that thefollowing conditions be studied before an ODevent is conducted:

� Wind speed and direction

From March through November, a favorablewind direction at the surface is towards theWest to East/Northeast (90 through 247.5degrees). This range is favorable with any windspeed, since wind gradient during this timeperiod is not generally an issue.

During the months of December throughFebruary, if wind speeds are 15 mph or less, thesame wind direction range (90 through 247.5degrees) is used. If wind speed is between 15and 30 mph during December and January,then the more restricted wind direction of


Temperature inversion is typically not a factor between 10:00 am and sundown.

Though blast events are limited to 22,500 NEW at ChinaLake, larger blasts were demonstrated. Surprisingly, the

annoyance and structural damage zones did not differ significantly with these more powerful blasts.


STOP! No OD

Is the wind direction between 90 & 247.5 degrees?

CONDUCT OD

Yes

No

Yes

March to November

Is the wind gradient (slope) measured at 0, 5000, 10,000 & 15,000 feet

>0 ft/knot to <690 ft/knot?

No

Is the wind speed < or equal to 15 mph?

Is the wind speed between 15 & 30 mph?


Yes

Yes

YesYes

No

No

Yes

December to February

No

No

No

The wind speed is >30 mph


STOP! No OD

CONDUCT OD

Is the wind gradient (slope) measured at 0, 5000, 10,000 & 15,000 feet

>0ft/knot to <690 ft/knot?

Yes

LEFT: Flowchart for determining noise impacts for spring, summer, and fall months.RIGHT: Flowchart for determining noise impacts for winter months.

This chart shows a positive wind gradient for each of the four seasons (wind speed on x-axis versus altitude on y-axis).

Wind GradientNorthwest to North/Northeast (135 through 202.5degrees) is used.

If the wind direction (along with wind speed) isunfavorable, then the second condition of windgradient must be considered. (Note: If wind speedin any direction is over 30 knots in Decemberthrough February, then wind gradient must alwaysbe considered.)

� Wind gradient

As stated earlier, a positive wind gradient increasesthe refraction of noise. Wind gradient is a measure-ment of wind speed in knots (x- axis) to altitude infeet (y-axis). As a positive wind gradient means thatwind speeds are stronger at higher altitudes andslower at lower altitudes.

In a positive wind gradient, the wind speed increases atelevation, displaying as a decreased slope. The line forthe spring season has a slope of 690 feet per knot(ft/knot) and is considered favorable. Any line with ashallower slope (or lower number) than the springseason is considered unfavorable. Therefore, any positive

ExcelTM flow chart. This model plots points andcalculates slope. If unfavorable conditions aredetected, the OD event will be postponed.

Lessons LearnedWhile it is intuitive to think that the amount ofexplosives in an OD event is the driving factor foroff-station sound propagation, the China Lakenoise analysis proved that atmospheric conditionsare actually the main driver. Temperature inversion(the same condition that entraps smog into a valleyor causes a cold day at low altitudes while warmerat higher altitudes) makes perfect sense as one ofthe drivers. However, positive wind gradients werenot expected as a second driver.

Except for the occasional temperature inversion thatlingers into the late morning, China Lake’s noisemitigation plan has successfully prevented noisefrom OD events from reaching surroundingcommunities. And while meteorological conditionsdiffer widely in other parts of the country, some ofthe basic findings could prove useful if other facili-ties are tasked with the challenge of mitigating noisefrom their own operations. �

CONTACT

Lauren (Laurie) ZellmerNaval Air Weapons Station China Lake760-939-3219 DSN: [email protected]


An OD event at China Lake. China Lake Technical Information Department

More About Wind Speed

A KNOT IS a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile(1.15 land miles). In meteorology, wind speed isalways measured in knots. Traditionally, aircraft andship speeds are also expressed in knots. However, inorder to facilitate understanding by the general public,knots are often converted to miles per hour (or kilo-meters per hour, depending on the local standard). Toconvert:

� 1 knot equals 1.15 mph

� 1 mph equals 0.868 knots

slope (greater than zero ft/knot) less than 690ft/knot is considered unfavorable.

If wind speeds do not consistently increase withincrease in altitude, a negative wind gradientslope may occur. A negative slope indicates adecrease in wind speed with elevation. Thisscenario is actually a favorable wind gradient,decreasing the probability that any noise willpropagate off-China Lake.

Putting the Plan into ActionAs a result of this analysis, China Lake has devel-oped a noise mitigation plan that is executed aspart of the base’s OD event planning activities. Thisplan specifies that personnel from the base’s envi-ronmental office must contact the base GeophysicsOperations Division no later than noon of the daybefore a planned OD event. The office provideswind speed information at various altitudes andwind direction data. This data is input into a simple

NAVAL SUBMARINE BASE (SUBASE) New Londonenvironmental specialists and Public Works Departmentleadership have deemed the remediation efforts undertakento restore and revitalize a base wetland area a success.

During a six-month project that completed at the end ofDecember 2012, the wetland area in the northeast cornerof SUBASE underwent remediation to remove ecologicallyharmful chemicals, and restoration to control the popula-tion of invasive plant species.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the result,” said MikeBrown, SUBASE environmental director.

Base environmental specialists and representa-tives from project contractor Shaw Environ-mental and Infrastructure (Shaw E&I),conducted a final walk through of the site nearthe base’s weapons compound and seasonalswimming lake on 9 January 2013.

“It really looks very different. We not onlyrestored five Comprehensive EnvironmentalResponse, Compensation, and Liability Act(CERCLA) areas but also mowed quite a bit ofphragmites outside of the restoration areas toprovide more ecological lift to the entire area,”said Tracey McKenzie, SUBASE naturalresource manager.

In the 1950s, the 19.3-acre area was a dumpsite for dredge spoils from the Thames River.In the 1960s, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane(DDT) pesticide bricks were utilized there tocontrol the mosquito population.

Site investigations on SUBASE following the CERCLA-estab-lished process, commonly referred to as Superfund, identi-fied the wetland area as one of 25 sites for the base tofocus on to mitigate the potential for any hazardoussubstance releases that may endanger public health,welfare, or the environment.

As greater priority areas on the base were tackled, addi-tional site investigations at the wetlands through 2011,uncovered local, low concentrations of aromatic hydrocar-bons, DDT, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB). Otherchemicals of concern included polynuclear aromatic hydro-carbons (e.g., asphalt, waste oils, burning of fossil fuels),


SUBASE New London Wetlands UndergoRemediation, RestorationContaminated Soil Removed, Invasive Species Tackled

Typical phragmite (invasive vegetation) coverage on SUBASE New London prior to remediation.


pesticides and metals posing unac-ceptable risk to plants and wildlife.

After comprehensive study, coordina-tion with federal and state environ-mental agencies, and public input,the Installation Restoration programat SUBASE decided to pursue a two-pronged approach to the wetland’sremediation and restoration:

1. Remove contaminated sediments

2. Curtail the growth of invasive plant species, such asphragmites

Some 6,800 cubic feet of sediment, from five separateareas totaling three acres, was excavated and removed.

To allow vehicle and machinery access to the site,contractors created a temporary road with a system ofinterconnecting composite mats, specially designed tominimize environmental impact.

Additionally, several wetland acreswere mowed in the winter of 2012 tomanage the invasive common reedphragmites communis (also known asphragmites australis) which threatensnative wetland vegetation.

Denise Page, the lead wetland biolo-gist with Shaw E&I describes phrag-mites communis: “The reeds can growup to 15 feet tall. They came viaships from Europe to the ports; theywere used as packing material andspread from there.” The reed is nowfound in every one of the lower 48states, but is most prevalent on theAtlantic coast and Northeast.

As remediation and restoration wascompleted, the wetlands became aneven more attractive home towildlife. Based on sightings or obser-vations of tracks, a long list ofanimals now make themselves athome in the wetland, includingwhite-tailed deer, amphibians,mallard ducks, coyote, snakes,raccoons, opossum, frogs, turtles,salamanders, and a variety of birds.Many species of trees, includingswamp white oak, red and silver maple,black willow and river birch havebeen planted in the excavated areas.

A temporary road was created into the excavation area to minimize environmental impact.

The Basics About SUBASE New London

NAVAL SUBMARINE BASE New London, Connecticut is the Navy’s first submarinebase. Its mission is to deploy combat-ready submarines and to train professionalsubmariners. Almost every submariner in today’s Navy will be stationed at SUBASENew London for training.

The base began as a naval yard and storage depot on 11 April 1868. By 1898, its mainuse was as a coaling station. In 1912, as oil replaced coal in the Fleet, the base wasscheduled for closure. Instead, due to the efforts of a local congressman, New Londonbecame the Navy’s first submarine base in 1915.

Today, Naval Submarine Base New London stretches along the east side of the ThamesRiver, straddling the communities of Groton and Ledyard. It occupies approximately687 acres, and has ten submarine piers and 15 SSN (nuclear) submarines. The basealso is home to more than 70 tenant commands and employs more than 9,500 activeduty, reserve and civilian personnel.

Naval Submarine Base New London.Map data©2013 Google


Access into the site was provided byinterconnecting mats, which formed a temporary road.

Contaminated sediment is removed from the wetland area.

New topsoil is being placed after the contaminated sediment was removed.

Newly planted shrubs and trees are protected by deer fencing.

In the spring of 2013, a wetland seed mix will behydroseeded in the excavated areas.

The wetlands will be monitored annually for three years toensure the establishment of healthy vegetation. The inva-sive reeds will be controlled with an herbicide that targetsphragmites without harming other plant life. Otherwise, thearea will be left alone to return to its natural state.

“The effective coordination between the base, the PublicWorks’ Facilities Engineering and Acquisition Division, theU.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and thecontractors was instrumental in the success of thisproject,” stated Brown.

Remediation and restoration of the wetlands brings SUBASEone step closer to being removed from the federal Superfundlist of the nation’s most polluted sites, where it has beensince 1990. If the current schedule holds and restorationremedies continue to move ahead on two other sites atSUBASE, the base could be taken off the list in 2014. �

Photos by Shaw E&I.

CONTACTS

ENS Phillip ChittyNaval Submarine Base New London 860-694-5684DSN: 694-5684 [email protected]

MC3 Gabriel BevanNaval Submarine Base New London 860-694-5980DSN: [email protected]


BALANCING THE COMMAND’Smission with environmental preserva-tion has always been a priority forNavy personnel at Naval Magazine(NAVMAG) Indian Island. Theweapons station recently became thefirst Navy installation in Washingtonto utilize eco-friendly ultraviolet (UV)technology at a Navy-owned waste-water treatment facility.

The pristine waters of Puget Soundand Port Townsend Bay support anabundance of marine life and offer avariety of outdoor recreation opportu-

nities. To help preserve this importanthabitat, and at the same timeimprove cost-effectiveness of thewater treatment process, the Navydecided to install a zero-chemicaltreatment system at NAVMAG IndianIsland in December 2012.

Shaleen Kessler, NAVMAG IndianIsland Environmental Department’sWater Quality Program site coordi-nator, said the treatment systemdemonstrates the Navy’s commit-ment to conservation and habitatpreservation. “The whole point of

having a waste-water treatmentcenter is to treat thatwater to make sure it’s safe for reuse,”said Kessler. “So, it was in the Navy’sbest interest to find a system that willresult in the purest discharge with thelowest amount of environmenteffects, and the UV guarantees that.”

The UV treatment system replacedthe chlorine disinfection system,which was originally constructed in1979. It was built to treat the collec-tion, holding, and transfer (CHT)waste from visiting ships at theammunition wharf. The shipsdischarged their CHT waste throughthe installation’s treatment system,where wastewater produced in basefacilities was also being treatedbefore being discharged into PortTownsend Bay.

Kessler said that the old systemproduced a chlorine byproduct,which can be harmful to wildlife if itentered the surrounding aquatic envi-ronment in high concentrations.Though there were never any knownincidents of adverse effects onwildlife, the environmental depart-

NAVMAG Indian Island Treats WastewaterWithout ChemicalsNorthwest Navy Base Utilizes Ultraviolet Technology as GreenerAlternative

Sand filter beds provide secondary treatment of wastewater biosolids prior to entering the UV disinfection chamber at NAVMAG Indian Island. The UV

treatment system then disinfects the water before it is discharged into Port Townsend Bay at the end of the installation’s

wastewater treatment process. MC2 (SW/AW) Scott A. McCall


ment felt that an extra step needed tobe taken to eliminate the chlorinebyproduct from discharge waters.

“What UV radiation does is kill thepathogens, the bacteria and viruses,so they don’t reproduce,” saidKessler. “Plus, it eliminates the use ofchemicals, so when the water comesout of the wastewater treatmentcenter, it doesn’t have any byproductsor harmful residue.”

Not only is the UV system safer, it isalso more mechanically reliable. BillKalina, NAVMAG Indian Island envi-ronmental site manager, added thatthe old chlorine system had thepotential for mechanical error as wellas operator error and safety issues forthe workers at the treatment facility.“UV eliminates all of that variabilityand that potential for human errorand mechanical error,” said Kalina.“This UV system has industrialcontrols for monitoring, so it has acomputerized system that will alert usif there is a problem.”

According to Kalina, the wastewatertreatment system upgrade ranked asthe number one utility issue on theinstallation. The initial cost of the UVsystem was more than $640,000. Thelong-term cost savings will besubstantial due to reduction in laborhours to monitor and maintain thenew system and the elimination ofmaterial costs associated with thechlorine-based system.

Additionally, being proactive withenvironmental projects like the UVsystem helps NAVMAG Indian Islandestablish credibility with regulatoryagencies like the U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency and WashingtonState Department of Ecology, as wellas with local tribes and members ofthe surrounding community.

Port Townsend Bay

THE TIDAL WATERS of Puget Sound are known historically to Native Americans asthe Salish Sea. Admiralty Inlet flows into Port Townsend Bay on the northeastern edgeof the Quimper Peninsula in Western Washington. The marine waters and shorelinesof Port Townsend Bay serve as a prime habitat area supporting an abundance ofmarine life, including salmon, oysters, river otters, harbor seals and orcas. These pris-tine waters and shorelines also offer a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities suchas fishing, beach walks, kayaking and bird watching.

The marine waters of Port Townsend Bay support an abundance of marine life, as well as a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.

MC2s (SW/AW) Scott A. McCall

After passing through the sand filter, wastewater enters the UV disinfection chamber through large pipes for the final phase of the installation’s wastewater treatment process. Computerized industrial controls are used to operate and monitor the UV disinfection system. MC2 (SW/AW) Scott A. McCall


“Our mission is integrated with our environmentalstewardship,” said Kalina. “We want to be good stew-ards of the environment, but it is also important to usoperationally to have public trust and credibility.”

Kalina added that the Navy’s initiative to ‘go green’ hasboth installation and fleet personnel throughout NavyRegion Northwest, not just at NAVMAG Indian Island,thinking ‘greener’ every day.

For more news from Commander, Navy RegionNorthwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnrnw. �

CONTACT

Liane NakaharaNaval Magazine Indian Island360-396-1630DSN: [email protected]

Naval Magazine Indian Island

NAVMAG INDIAN ISLAND is the only deep water ammunition port onthe West Coast. It is responsible for the joint transfer shipment of ammu-nition among the five branches of the military services. The base is also acritical site for joint training exercises, including waterborne security andlogistics mobilization drills. Not only do NAVMAG Indian Island employeesprovide an invaluable service to the fleet, they also go out of their way tobe good stewards of the environment by improving and protecting tidalsalt marshes, building a shoreline protection system, removing creosotelogs from the beaches, and remediating contaminated sites from historicWorld War II operations. These projects resulted in the removal ofNAVMAG Indian Island from the National Priorities List by the U.S. Envi-ronmental Protection Agency in 2005. This achievement makes NAVMAGIndian Island the only Navy installation on the West Coast, and the thirdbase in the Navy’s history, to be removed from this list. In the past severalyears, NAVMAG Indian Island has won multiple Secretary of the NavyEnergy and Water Management Awards as well as the 2012 small shorecommand award in the Navy Community Service Program for Environ-mental Stewardship. NAVMAG Indian Island takes its name from thefamous British Explorer Captain George Vancouver who dubbed this landmass “Indian Island” after observing a seasonal village site of theChemakum tribe on Walan Point during his exploration of Puget Sound in1792. The Walan Point area is the present day location of the Navy’sammunition wharf.

For more information on NAVMAG Indian Island, visitwww.cnic.navy.mil/Indian_Island/index.htm.

NAVMAG Indian Island workers load ordnance onto USS Shoup (DDG 86). Indian Island is the only deep waterammunition port on the West Coast. Liane Nakahara

An aerator in the sewage lagoon is used to mix the water to facilitate microbial breakdown of the sludge as part of the primary phase of the wastewater treatment process. MC2 (SW/AW) Scott A. McCall

THE NAVY HAS established aggres-sive targets for reducing energyconsumption and increasing renew-able energy production. To helpachieve the goals laid out in theNavy’s energy program, personnelfrom the Naval Air Station (NAS) Jack-sonville, Florida recently installed aninnovative (first-of-its kind for theDepartment of Defense) sludge treat-ment solution at its wastewater treat-ment plant to reduce energyconsumption, lower costs, andrecycle waste.

This newly-installed sludge treatmentsystem relies on simple, safe andrepeatable chemistry to achieve disin-fection of sewage sludge and organicwaste. Traditional sludge treatmentsystems rely on energy intensive anddifficult to control biological orthermal systems. The system usestwo separate chemicals to safelygenerate chlorine dioxide (commondisinfectant) onsite for disinfectionand odor elimination of the sewagesludge. The process is completelyautomated and computer controlledto ensure consistent operation.

During the treatment process, sludgegenerated at NAS Jacksonville’s waste-

water treatment plant is pumped tothe new system’s chemistry injectionsystem where the chlorine dioxide isgenerated and added to the sludgestream. The sludge flows through theprocess control system where it isdisinfected and odor-causingcompounds are destroyed. Sludgetreatment that previously took four tosix weeks now takes 10 minutes withthe new system. Following treatment,the disinfected, odor-free product is

dewatered using the existing belt pressand then collected and transported toa permitted land application sitewhere the nutrient content is recycled.

The new sludge treatment systemconsumes significantly less energythan the aerobic digesters previouslyused for sludge treatment at NASJacksonville. Traditional treatment viaaerobic digestion required substantialenergy to power the motors that


NAS Jacksonville Implements SustainableSewage Sludge TreatmentNew System Consumes Significantly Less Energy

Casey Cochran, utilities supervisor for Richard Brady and Associates, left, points out some of the unique functions of the solenoid valve for the Clean B Solution to Jay Caddy, commodity manager for NAS Jacksonville Public Works Utilities and Energy Management.

The valves filter the water for after it is disinfected either into the Chemical Sludge Treatment System or back to the wasterwater treatment plant to be retreated.


were needed to continuously mix and aerate sludge.Converting to the new system has reduced sludge treat-ment energy consumption from close to one millionkilowatt hours (kWh) per year to an estimated 500 kWhper year. This substantial energy reduction will result insavings to NAS Jacksonville of around $75,000 in 2013.Based on projected increases in energy costs, the basewill save an average of $107,000 per year of energy overthe next 20 years. One additional benefit will be thereduction in operation and maintenance costs andrecapitalization of aging infrastructure due to the elimina-tion of a primary clarifier, sludge thickener and twoaerobic digesters at this facility.

The Navy’s shore energy policy is more than environmentalstewardship and lowering energy bills. Energy is a strategicresource, and developing efficient operations that rely onresilient energy sources is a matter of national security.

Kevin Savela, general maintenance worker with Richard Brady and Associates, works on the air system of the belt filter press at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Sludge is sent by conveyer belt to a dumpsterafter going through the separation treatmentprocess. The sludge is picked by a recycler to be used for non-public access pasture lands.

Naval forces depend on constant support from shore oper-ations, and energy security is essential for powering ourcritical shore installations now and in the future. Therefore,the savings being realized by the new system, coupledwith the energy savings, result in a simple payback of 6.3years for the $700,000 investment in the system.

This $707,000 energy project was awarded to AerostarEnvironmental Services in April 2012. BCR Environmentaldesigned, built and installed the system and completedthe project in October 2012. �

Photos by Kaylee LaRocque.

CONTACTS

Miriam GalletNaval Air Station Jacksonville904-542-5588DSN: [email protected]

Sue BrinkNaval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast904-542-6622DSN: [email protected]

The Chemical Sludge Treatment System, tanks and components treat anaverage of 40 gallons per minute of waste sludge from the NAS Jacksonville Wastewater Treatment Plant.

LIKE MANY CITIES in the western part of the U.S., SanDiego has increasingly been subject to water restrictionsdue to an ongoing shortage of water. This is becoming aserious issue in many parts of the world; one that couldadversely affect the Navy’s mission.

One promising new method for conserving water iscurrently being demonstrated at Marine Corps RecruitDepot (MCRD) San Diego. A manmade mini wetlandsystem for the recycle and reuse of domestic (sewage)wastewater has been installed by personnel from theNaval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Engi-neering and Expeditionary Warfare Center (EXWC) withsponsorship from the Environmental Security TechnologyCertification Program (ESTCP), and support from MCRD,San Diego and the Navy Environmental SustainabilityDevelopment to Integration (NESDI) program.

The system, known as The Living Machine®, will allowMCRD San Diego to realize a reduction in water consump-tion mandates, and will reduce costs associated with thepurchase of fresh water and the disposal of used water.

How It WorksThe Living Machine is based on tidal wetland tech-nology consisting of treatment cells where plants are

grown. The wetland cells alternately fill and drain toreplicate and accelerate the tidal action in an estuarybut in a much smaller footprint. In comparison toconventional wastewater treatment technologies, thissystem offers reduced energy use and significantsavings in both capital and lifecycle cost while achievingreuse water quality standards.

This ecosystem-based wastewater treatment systemcenters around a set of wetland modules which look likeplanter boxes, enhancing aesthetic amenity. Each cellmodule contains native plants with a bed of engineeredgravel. The gravel supports a biofilm of beneficial bacteriaand other microorganisms that use the waste as their foodsource, leaving only clean water for reuse. The water iscontained beneath the gravel surface—all the casualobserver sees are lush, vibrant plantings.

The Living Machine uses tidal action to maintain anaerobic environment for the biofilm. Through the use ofuniquely designed valves and pumps, gravity flow ismaximized and energy consumption is minimized. The water level is raised and lowered about 12 timesper day to create multiple tidal cycles. As the water level is lowered, air replaces the water and oxygenatesthe biofilm.


Manmade Wetland at MCRD San DiegoRecycles WastewaterWater Conservation Possible with the Living Machine

The system will allow MCRD San Diego to realize a reduction in water consumption mandates, and will reduce costs associated with the

purchase of fresh water and the disposal of used water.


The primary contaminants removed by the wetlandmodules are suspended solids and dissolved nutrients likephosphorous and nitrogen. The wastewater first goesthrough a settling tank where the bulk of the solids areremoved. Then it goes through treatment cells where mostof the treatment occurs. It is then disinfected by ultravioletlight and again by chlorine in a two-stage disinfection step.Thus, the effluent from the treatment subsystem will havebeen treated to a tertiary level. The end product is color-less and odorless.

Though this is the first installation of a Living Machine onDepartment of Defense property, the system is beingemployed at several institutions around the country,including schools, government and municipal buildings,retail shopping centers, and even private housing develop-ments. The U.S. General Services Administration iscurrently installing a highly-landscaped Living Machine atits Otay Mesa border crossing station. The range of usesfor the treated water includes toilet flushing, coolingtowers, and subsurface irrigation, as is the case at MCRDSan Diego. While MCRD San Diego will eventually recycle10,000 gallons of wastewater per day through its LivingMachine, other users have recycled up to hundreds ofthousands of gallons per day.

The Permitting ProcessOnce the Living Machine was successfully demonstrated,MCRD San Diego sought permitting to continue to provide

The Basics About the NESDI Program

THE NESDI PROGRAM seeks to provide solutions by demon-strating, validating and integrating innovative technologies,processes, materials, and filling knowledge gaps to minimizeoperational environmental risks, constraints and costs whileensuring Fleet readiness. The program accomplishes this missionthrough the evaluation of cost-effective technologies, processes,materials and knowledge that enhance environmental readinessof naval shore activities and ensure they can be integrated intoweapons system acquisition programs.

The NESDI program is the Navy’s environmental shoreside 6.4Research, Development, Test and Evaluation program. Sponsoredby the Chief of Naval Operations Energy and EnvironmentalReadiness Division and managed by NAVFAC, the program is theNavy’s complement to the Department of Defense’s ESTCP whichconducts demonstration and validation of technologies importantto the tri-Services, U.S. Environmental Protec-tion Agency and Department of Energy.

For more information, visit theNESDI program web site atwww.nesdi.navy.mil or contactLeslie Karr, the NESDI ProgramManager at 805-982-1618, DSN:551-1618 or [email protected].

Process Flow Diagram for the Living Machine.

subsurface irrigation at the base. For past installations ofthe Living Machine at other locations, it has been the dutyof the local Water Quality Control Board and the localBoard of Health to review such a system. The system isdesigned to meet potable water reuse (toilet flushing,laundry, etc.) and equipped with ultraviolet and chlorina-tion disinfection to meet this strict requirements. However,since the treated wastewater for this application will beused for sub-terrain irrigation only, a “discharge to land”permit will be applicable. This type of permit is easier and


The Living Machine ribbon cutting ceremony at MCRD SanDiego with Brigadier General Daniel D. Yoo.

cheaper for MCRD San Diego to obtain and requires lesswastewater monitoring.

NAVFAC EXWC is working with the base to prepare aReport of Waste Discharge (ROWD). The ROWD contains acomplete technical description of the Living Machine’soperation, with the following sections:

� Wastewater Characterization (including flow rate,constituents and concentrations)

� Treatment System (including the process by which thewastewater is treated and the capacity of that system)

� Best Management Practices (This section is notapplicable to the Living Machine since the systemitself is a BMP.)

� Disposal Site (including a description of how andwhere the wastewater will be disposed)

� Groundwater (including a description of how thewastewater will interact with the groundwater anddemonstration that the system will be in compliancewith water quality criteria)

In turn, the San Diego Regional Water Quality ControlBoard will assess any impacts to the groundwater causedby the operation of the Living Machine. Then, the Boardwill impose Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR) on theoperation, along with an annual fee. WDRs apply todischarges to land, as opposed to discharges to surfacewater. The purpose of WDRs is to protect the groundwaterfrom contamination. Past WDRs for Living Machine instal-lations in California have included waste discharge specifi-cations, general prohibitions, additional system design and

Living Machine subsurface treatment cells/tanks installation.


operations specifications, and moni-toring requirements.

An Environmental ProtectionSpecialist at an installation may alsoexpect to coordinate with their localBoard of Health to ensure that peopledo not come into contact withunhealthful water.

Currently, MCRD San Diego’s LivingMachine is operating at about 7,000gallons per day. Eventually, the systemwill be ramped up to 10,000 gallonsper day. Long-term performance datais still being collected by the system’scomputer (including pH, oxygen, flowrates, and power consumption). The

payback period of 7.1 years. MCRDSan Diego’s cost includes an addi-tional $200,000 that ensuredcomplete integration of the systemwith their landscape

Future work includes documentingthe true water and cost savings of theLiving Machine system at MCRD SanDiego and disseminating the results.NAVFAC EXWC is also exploring afunding and contracting arrangementwhere an activity would receive aLiving Machine system and then payfor it over time using the savingsgenerated by the system. Currently,some energy conservation projectsare funded this way.

The Living Machine system, along withthe subsurface irrigation system areworking together to help MCRD SanDiego conserve water, save money, andenhance mission readiness. �

Photos by Sonny Maga.

CONTACT

Sonny MagaNaval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center805-982-1340DSN: [email protected]

treated water will be tested for totalsuspended solids, total dissolvedsolids, and eight other criteria, in linewith California reuse requirements.

Cost AvoidanceThrough the use of the LivingMachine, MCRD will avoid the cost ofobtaining potable water ($5,022 permillion gallons) and the cost ofdisposing of used water ($5,347 permillion gallons). The savings will beabout $39,000 per year.

The cost for a basic system similar insize to the one installed at MCRD isabout $250,000, resulting in a simple

The Living Machine wastewater treatment system at MCRD San Diego.

The lawn at MCRD San Diego will be irrigated by water from the Living Machine.

THE QUEST FOR an environmen-tally safe, cost-effective way to identifyleaks in aircraft fuel cells has come toa close at the Fleet Readiness CenterSoutheast (FRCSE) in Jacksonville,Florida—at least where the P-3 Orionis concerned. FRCSE has implementeda new fuel leak detection capability forthe P-3 Orion aircraft that has alreadyreduced Turn-Around-Time (TAT) by 15percent with a cost avoidance ofnearly $20,000 per aircraft.

Leak identification and repair in avia-tion fuel systems are significantconcerns that regularly impact main-tenance and repair schedules, andincrease cost. But more importantly,this maintenance issue can reducethe availability of critical Navy assetsand negatively impact mission readi-ness. In addition, rework due to fuelleaks increases personnel exposure tofuel and hazardous materials, as wellas harm to the environment if leaksgo undetected or are not properlycontained during fueling operations.

The Search for a CFC-113ReplacementSince the use of chlorofluorocarbon(CFC) 113, a priority I ozone depletingsubstance, was banned in 1996, alter-native methods of fuel leak detectionhave not proven adequate to identifyall potential fuel leaks nor ensure theintegrity of fuel systems. The result isfrequent, unnecessary rework andretest of fuel tanks.

supported FRCSE in their investiga-tion of alternative fuel leak detectiontechnologies to replace the capabili-ties lost with the ban of CFC-113. Inrecent years, commercial leak detec-tion technologies have advanced anda variety of potential alternatives areavailable, including ultrasonic andinfrared thermography, and severaltrace gas leak detection technolo-gies.

Of these, industry development andgrowth of helium and hydrogen tracegas leak detection technologies have


FRCSE Saves Time & Money Locating PotentialAircraft Fuel LeaksNew Detection Capability Established for P-3 Orion

By applying the tracer gas on the outside of the tank and using the hydrogen leak detector on the inside, leaks and leak paths can be readily identified and leaks repaired.

Courtesy of INFICON, Inc.

Leaks and leak paths which are frequently masked by seam sealers and paints can be readily identified and leaks repaired.

Since 2007, the Navy EnvironmentalSustainability Development to Inte-gration (NESDI) program has


technology was more user-friendly, accurate, reliable, andeasier to maintain than thehelium leak detector. Further,hydrogen leak detectionprovided a lower operationalcost, as helium is a limitedresource and very expensive.

How It WorksHydrogen trace gas leak detec-tion technology uses a 95 percentnitrogen/5 percent hydrogenmixture that is both inexpensiveand inert (non-flammable). Withthe extreme sensitivity of thedetector and ready dispersion inair, the low-level, hydrogenconcentration gas works well forleak detection and is inherentlysafe.

The hydrogen trace gas is injectedinto the empty (closed) fuel tank,and the exterior of the tank isprobed with a portable detector tofind and locate leaks. When theprobe detects hydrogen, the unitprovides a visual LED light andaudible alarm.

The hydrogen leak detector candetect extremely small leaks atleak rates (as low as 5x10-7 cubiccentimeters per second) or it canbe adjusted to sense leaks atgreater levels as required.

Based on P-3 demonstrations,FRCSE engineering established athreshold level at which the

smallest of actual fuel leaks would be detected. To vali-date this threshold, the team performed several tests onmultiple aircraft using the hydrogen leak detector andverified that no fuel leaks were observed during initialfueling operations.

An added advantage of the tracer gas technology is thecapability to apply the ‘backflow leak detection’ methodto find the actual source of wing tank fuel leaks for the

been substantial. Currently, both technologies are widelyused in the automotive, as well as air conditioning and refrig-eration industries, and have expanded into aviation use.

Based on market research and in collaboration with theU.S. Air Force, FRCSE contacted several commercialvendors to perform technology demonstrations at themilitary depot. From the P-3 fuel wing tank demonstra-tions, FRCSE determined that the hydrogen tracer gas

Sheet Metal Mechanic Bryan Swafford inspects a P-3 Orion wing tank for potential fuel leaks using hydrogen leak detection technology at FRCSE. This new capability has reduced the TAT of aircraft wet check by 15 percent.

A WP-3D aircraft operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s AircraftOperations Center sits on the airfield at FRCSE as maintainers perform a visual inspection.

The aircraft is one of two hurricane hunters used for long-range atmospheric research. They are civilian versions of the U.S. Navy’s P-3 four-engine maritime reconnaissance

aircraft and are maintained and repaired at FRCSE on Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida.

P-3. Frequently, the fuel leak found on the outside of thetank does not provide any indication of the origin insidethe tank. By applying the tracer gas through an injectionpad on the outside of the tank and using the hydrogenleak detector on the inside, leaks and leak paths which

are frequently masked by seam sealers and paints canbe readily identified and leaks repaired. Currently,FRCSE is working to gain approval of the backflowmethod to provide yet one more tool in the toolbox forfuel leak detection.


FRCSE Continues to Improve F/A-18 Green Hornet Fuel Leak Testing

FRCSE PERSONNEL, WITH support from the NESDI program, also collaborated with the U.S. Air Force to improve aircraft fuel leaktesting on the F/A-18 (A-D) Green Hornet Strike Fighter. The team performed vendor-supported, hydrogen leak demonstrations on unin-stalled and installed F/A-18 (A-D) fuel cells.

The hydrogen leak detector was very effective in pinpointing leaks on uninstalled F-18 fuel cells in the shop, but it proved challenging oninstalled fuel cells due to the inability to seal the structural cavity vents. For this reason, the project team was unable to create sufficientpressure to pinpoint leaks.

Still, another type of leak testing, pressure decay testing, was formallyimplemented as a result of hydrogen leak testing. In pressure decaytesting, pressure in the fuel tank is raised to a target level. A pressuregauge is used to measure the pressure drop or pressure decay over aspecified period of time. The acceptance criterion is typically zero dropcorrected for temperature change. FRCSE developed test kits andperformed pressure decay testing for F/A-18 (A-D) fuel cells #1through #4.

Since January 2010, pressure decay testing has been required prior tothe installation of internal fuel cell components including valves, pumpsand tubing. Testing not only proves the integrity of the fuel cell but alsoverifies that the O-rings installed at all joints between the fuel cell andthe cavity are not damaged.

To date, the pressure decay test has been performed on more than 26aircraft. This has resulted in at least ten fuel cells, including six of themore complex (#4) fuel cells, being replaced prior to installing internalcomponents and performing a final wet check. (Note: During a “wetcheck” artisans fill the fuel tank with a liquid (oil) then check the exte-rior for liquid leaks. The weight of the liquid can cause the wing tank toflex and a leak to be found.) Thus, a significant amount of rework hasbeen avoided, TAT has been reduced by eight to ten days per aircraft, and no less than 200 man-hours per aircraft have been avoidedby capturing the discrepancies prior to final wet check.

Currently, Naval Air Systems Command, Naval Air Warfare Center Lakehurst, Boeing and Northrop Grumman are in the process offielding a combination test kit and universal plug kit to enable fleet maintainers to perform a pressure test of fuel cells on all F/A-18aircraft including the Super Hornet and the EA-18G Growler aircraft.

The universal plug kit will provide a means to seal off all the fuel cell fittings and perform the pressure decay test. The kit will also sealoff the problematic vent ports located in the cavity structure to create sufficient pressure across the fuel cell.

When the combination pressure test set and the universal plug kit are fielded to FRCSE, the team will resume efforts to further enhancethe facility’s capability to isolate fuel cell leaks with the very promising hydrogen leak detector.

Aircraft Mechanic Patrick Dodrill (from left), Mechanical SystemsEngineer Patrick Papay, and Darvin Etienne monitor a pressuredecay test to detect the presence of a fuel leak on an F/A-18 Green Hornet Strike Fighter aircraft at FRCSE.


To implement this new process forthe P-3 aircraft, FRCSE applied“lean” methodologies and released aLocal Process Specification to elimi-nate more than half of the leakdetection process steps to reduce TATto the Fleet. (Note: Lean, a manage-ment philosophy derived mostlyfrom the Toyota Production System,is centered on preserving value withless work.)

Environmental benefits of thisprocess are:

1. A viable replacement to CFC-113has finally been implemented.

2. Potential hazardous waste streamsassociated with active aviation fuel

Photos by Victor Pitts.

CONTACTS

Tom CowherdFleet Readiness Center Southeast904-790-5357DSN: [email protected]

Kellie CarneyIn-Service Support Center Fleet Readiness Center Southeast904-790-6393DSN: [email protected]

Dan MarlowIn-Service Support Center Fleet Readiness Center Southeast904-790-6079DSN: [email protected]

FROM LEFT: Aerospace Engineer Dan Marlow, Environmental Logistics Engineer/Pollution Prevention Manager Tom Cowherd, Chemist Kellie Carney,P-3 Production Line General Foreman Greg Wallace, and Production Support Specialist Rodney Boone pose in front of a P-3C Orion

Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance aircraft at FRCSE. They were part of the team to implement the new hydrogen fuel leak detection process.

tank repair and leak testing havebeen substantially reduced.

3. The Hazardous Air Pollutants/Volatile Organic Compoundsassociated with fueling, defu-eling, de-puddle and gas-freetesting due to rework have beenreduced.

4. The risk associated with potentialwater runoff contamination dueto leaking aircraft fuel tanks hasbeen reduced.

For more information about thisproject, see the fact sheet on theNESDI program’s website atwww.nesdi.navy.mil/ProjectsCurrent_FS.aspx?ProjID=333. �

WHEN IS A ton not a ton? Whenapproximately 2,000 pounds ofbiomedical waste gets diverted from alandfill due to efforts of personnel atNaval Hospital Bremerton (NHB).

April 22, 2013 marked one year ofsuccess for Naval Hospital Bremerton’sMain Operating Room (OR) sustain-able practice of recycling and repro-cessing single-use instruments.

fiberoptic instrument, passed througha small incision in the abdominal wall,which examines the abdominal cavityor performs minor surgery.) Much isdisposable and not reusable. But theinstrumentation once used is recy-clable. Plastic parts can be grindedand/or melted down; metal compo-nents of copper and steel can be sepa-rated, recovered and reused.

“Due to our case load, we might usea dozen specific devices a day andeach is recycled instead of sendingthem to a landfill,” said KevinStevenson, Main OR Nurse andprime coordinator of the OR effortsalong with Cmdr. Fran Slonski,Quality Management DepartmentHead, and previous Main OR Depart-ment Head. Stevenson and Slonskireceived the inaugural NHB Sustain-ability Award certificate last year onbehalf of the OR for this endeavor.

The Main OR used to throw awaythree, 30-gallon bags of garbage pertotal joint surgery case. Now theyrecycle three, 30-gallon bags ofplastic and have just one 15-gallonbag to throw away.

“It’s a significant reduction in thewaste sent to a landfill. It’s really anincremental amount of waste product,and we’re staying on top of the

process because it’s easy to take forgranted. We even recycle the instru-ment wrappings to use again,”Stevenson said.

“This program is becoming moremain-stream because of its obviousbenefits. It is also supporting ourenvironmental sustainability. Envi-ronmental management is focusedon waste diversion, reduction, andminimization,” said RamonCalantas, NHB Facilities Manage-ment environmental technician.


Naval Hospital Bremerton Diverts BiomedicalWaste from Its Waste StreamOperating Room’s Initiative Reduces Landfill Biohazard Waste, Proves Cost-Efficient

The OR’s environmental initiative has not only reduced landfill biohazard waste, but also proved cost-efficient.

The OR’s environmental initiative hasnot only reduced landfill biohazardwaste, but also proved cost-efficientby saving $2,300 from enactingbiomedical waste disposal processes,as well as enhanced their recyclingefforts by receiving brand new sterileitems from instruments turned in.

A prime example of the OR’s sustain-ability plan concerns medical suppliesinvolved in laparoscopic usage duringa procedure. (Note: A laparoscopicprocedure involves the use of a flexible


“We have a lot of great nurses, bothmilitary and civilian, working on thisproject,” said Slonski.

“This is a result of staff members suchas Cmdr. Slonski and Kevin Stevensonproviding insight on how we canminimize our impact of the environ-ment. It’s process improvement at itsbest,” Calantas said.

Calantas added that the ORrecycling/reprocessing efforts are aprime example of keeping thecommand more environmentallysustainable. A prime example of theOR reprocessing single-use instruments

and without needles are also disposedin the Sharps Containers.

According to Robert Mitchell, NHBEnvironmental Manager and Sustain-ability Program Manager, sustain-ability is to the ability to meet presentneeds without compromising theability of future generations to meettheir own needs.

“Stevenson has been the drivingforce of the Main OR team. He hashelped to coordinate overall envi-ronmental awareness that hasreduced the amount of solid wasteleaving the Main OR, increased

has staff members diligently placingsingle-use devices into SharpsContainers (a container used to placemedical needles and other sharpmedical instruments after use) forbiomedical waste. Single-use devicesinclude bipolar cutting forceps, laparo-scopic dissectors, graspers, scissors,suture passers, ultrasonic scalpers, andany sharp-pointed surgical instruments.

The primarily red-white colored SharpsContainers in the OR are also used todispose of all sharps instruments suchas needles, blades, scalpels, razors,pins, clips, staples, and puncture-creating items. Empty syringes with

All lined up and ready to go. Kevin Stevenson, NHB Operating RoomNurse, ensures that the department’s recycling efforts are prepped to accommodate the upcoming day’s case load.

The OR has reduced the amount of biomedical waste disposed, reduced the cost of disposing of medical waste, and saved money

by buying back at half the price of a brand new device.

recycling outflow and advocated product substitution as a sound economic practice,” said Mitchell.

“We work closely with our Environmental Departmentand brought in a contractor, Stryker Sustainability Solu-tions, to coordinate and accommodate the ambitious

sustainability plans we implemented.Without them, this would not havehappened. We wouldn’t be handling paper,plastic and any medical devices as properlyas we do now,” said Stevenson.

Stevenson notes that prior to partnering withStryker, the OR devices were just disposed ofinto large Sharps Containers. Now, Strykercan sell devices back to NHB with up to 50percent of cost reduction after each device isbroken down to bare components, cleaned,sharpened, reassembled, packaged, andsterilized. The OR has reduced the amountof biomedical waste disposed, reduced thecost of disposing of medical waste, andsaved money by buying back at half theprice of a brand new device.

“Re-processing is really all about changinghabits. It is keeping people from falling back

into former ways of handling waste product. Kevin is achampion of the cause because he has shared his aware-ness and discipline with those with whom he works. Asformer military, we know that service members tend topick up on new instructions quickly and follow through.


“A place for everything and everything in its place” is the daily norm of NHB’s OR when it comes to recycling products from regular waste to biohazard waste to pharmaceutical waste.

The Basics About Naval Hospital Bremerton

NHB IS A community-based acute care and obstetrical hospital, offering expert primary care, emergency care and a broad range ofmedical and surgical specialties, with 40 inpatient beds (with expansion capacity to 72). The hospital is conveniently located betweenNaval Base Kitsap (NBK) Bremerton and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and NBK Bangor. NHB is parent command for three Naval BranchHealth Clinics and the Puget Sound Family Medicine Residency Program. The three clinics are located at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard,NBK Bangor and Naval Station Everett.

NHB has a three-fold primary mission to support warfighters, past andpresent, and their families:

� Providing exceptional care anytime, anywhere.

� Shaping military medicine through training, research, and graduatemedical education

� Preparing forces for deployment.

NHB and its clinic’s staff consist of approximately 1,400 dedicated military,civilian, contract and American Red Cross volunteer personnel.

For more information about NHB, visit www.med.navy.mil/sites/nhbrem.


The efforts here at NHB are really great,” stated JaysonAyers, Stryker Sustainability Solutions representative.

“We are seeing a nearly 40 percent reduction in supplycosts related to the purchasing of the reprocessed items.The first item we started buying as a reprocessed unit issaving us $240 per box of five from purchasing thembrand new. Creative business practices such as these willallow us to make better use of the government funding,reduce our environmental footprint, and prove our dedi-cation to being responsible stewards for the government,”explained Lt. Cmdr. Richard B. Lawrence, Main ORDepartment Head. “Even with the custom set-up packsused in surgeries, the provider has been accommodatingto the OR needs and concerns to achieve additionalreductions in our waste stream,” he continued. Addition-ally, items such as sterile trays for equipment (to beplaced on) are also being recycled to help meet environ-mental concerns.

“We are always interested in evaluating our partnershipswith current and prospective vendors who can help ourdepartment and the Command reduce our environmentalimpact. All of these efforts are a huge team approach fromthe department, the vendors, and the other parties in theCommand who help us along the way from MaterialsManagement to the Environmental team. Without theirsupport and dedication, we would have never been able toaccomplish this goal,” Lawrence said.

Along with the Sharps Containers, NHB has a variety ofcolor-coded medical waste disposal devices located atspecific departments, clinics and offices throughout thecommand, such as:

� Clear bags for regular waste (trash/wrappers, dressings,diapers, gloves, empty drainage bags, disposablepatient items and sanitary napkins)

� The black box for Pharmaceutical Waste includingresidual medication, intravenous (IV) bags and tubingwith residual added medications (no blood)

� Vials, tablets, capsules, powders, liquids,creams/lotions, eye drops, suppositories, inhalers,unused nicotine gum or patches, nitroglycerine tablets

� Residual medications expelled from medication-filledsyringes

� Partially used/residual prescription or over-the-countermedications

The Biohazardous Waste red bags are used for:

� Blood and all potentially infectious material

� Bloody tubing, hemo/pleurovac chest drainage systems

� Soaked/dripping bloody dressing/intact glass or plasticbottles containing bloody fluids

� All disposable items soaked or dripping with blood orother potentially infectious material

� Maternity absorbent pads from obstetrical patients

The Trace Chemo Waste in yellow boxes are reserved forall supplies used to make and administer chemomedication, such as tubing, empty bags/bottles/vials,syringes, gloves, pads, masks, gowns and wipes. Patho-logical Waste such as human tissue and organs,placentas and similar tissues from surgery, delivery orautopsy procedures is disposed of in gray tubs. Thecolor-coded medical waste disposal containers also havespecific handling instructions that include maximumweight allowances. �

Photos by Douglas Stutz.

CONTACT

Douglas Stutz Naval Hospital Bremerton 360-475-4665DSN: [email protected]

Just an arm’s length away. Sharps Containers in the OR are used to dispose of all sharps instruments such as needles,

blades, scalpels, razors, pins, clips, staples, puncture-creating items. Empty syringes with and without needles

are also disposed of in the Sharps Containers.

EVERYONE IN THE Navy wants tosee their installation run like a well-oiled machine—smarter, more effi-ciently, with less waste—to betteraccomplish the mission, and at lowercost—to do the right thing by theenvironment, not just now but forfuture generations. Sustainabilitybrings together both of these conceptsas successfully demonstrated by anumber of naval installations.

Conducting the Navy’s day-to-daybusiness sustainably makes sense,and it’s Department of Defense(DoD) policy. Every June, the UnderSecretary of Defense for Acquisition,Technology and Logistics submitsthe DoD Strategic SustainabilityPerformance Plan, which is builtaround four mission-orientedsustainability objectives:

1. The Continued Availability ofResources Critical to the DoDMission is Ensured

2. DoD Readiness Maintained in theFace of Climate Change

3. The Ongoing Performance of DoDAssets Ensured by MinimizingWaste and Pollution

4. Continuous Improvement in theDoD Mission Achieved through

Management and Practices Builton Sustainability and Community

Complementing this framework arepolicies such as the Secretary of theNavy goal for half of Navy installationsto be net zero energy consumers by2020, and a suite of DoD and NavalFacilities Engineering Command(NAVFAC) guidance documents andstandards such as the Unified Facili-

ties Criteria. But making a sustainableNavy a reality doesn’t happen at thetop, it happens on the ground, onNavy installations. This articlecompiles examples of eight installa-tions that have demonstrated effectiveapproaches for improving the sustain-ability of their operations. Theirstories provide tangible examples ofways to do things better, while oftensaving money in the process.

Using Facility Energy & PotableWater More EfficientlyPerformance Contracting: Paying forProjects with Savings

Naval Air Station (NAS) Whiting Fieldin Florida awarded a $3.6 millionUtility Energy Service Contract perfor-mance contract in April 2012 toreduce fossil fuel and water consump-tion by 12 facilities on the installation.


Sustainability Approaches Proven Successful at Naval InstallationsEfforts Range from Using Facility Energy More Efficiently to DivertingConstruction & Demolition Debris

DoD defines sustainability as the ability to operate into the future without decline—either in the mission or in the natural

and man-made systems that support it.


In a performance contract, the service provider is paidfrom the savings in energy—and often water—generatedby the improvements the provider implements under thecontract. NAS Whiting Field had a broad range of workconducted under the contract for renewable energy andenergy and water efficiency. The utility, Gulf Power,installed advanced building energy monitors and madeupgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning

Just as large expanses of otherwise underutilized DoD land are ideal for solar projects, so are rooftops. Also, the protection provided by the panels can lengthen the lifespan of the roof.

Air duct inspection at Naval Station Rota in Spain. Many energyefficiency improvements are low cost and generate ongoing revenue from the resulting savings.

(HVAC) systems, including installing direct digital controlsfor HVAC equipment. It upgraded infrared heaters, chillercompressors, and lighting to more energy efficient models.Personnel were trained on how to optimally operateenergy-intensive equipment, including scheduling its useto reduce peak demand for energy. For water efficiency,the contract included installing high efficiency plumbingfixtures. Finally, more than 8,000 square feet of solarwindow film was installed in the two bachelor quarters,and 1,200 solar photovoltaic panels were installed on therooftops of two squadron training buildings. As a result ofthe work, the base is reaping annual saving of 14,850million British thermal units in energy—a drop of 10percent—and 1.3 million gallons of water, a dramaticreduction of 74 percent. This translates into avoided costsby the installation of more than $300,000 every year.

Partnering with Local Authorities for Reclaimed Water

In February 2012, NAS Corpus Christi and local councilmembers entered into an agreement to bring reclaimedwater from the city’s wastewater plant—treated but notpotable—to the installation golf course. The City of CorpusChristi Water Department arranged and paid for the infra-structure (purple pipe and associated pumps, valves andcontrols) to take the water from the wastewater treatmentplant to the fence line of the base, a little under one mileaway, through a $1.0 million contract. The base Depart-ment of Morale, Welfare and Recreation handled the infra-structure on the base, at a cost of $1.2 million. The cost tothe base will be repaid quickly, however. With the newsystem, the base is using 96,000 gallons of reclaimed

water per year, which the Cityprovides at no cost. This representsannual savings for the installation of$384,000 over using potable water fora payback period of just three yearsand two months.

Increasing Renewable EnergyIn January 2012, construction beganat Naval Air Weapons Station ChinaLake on what will be the Navy’slargest solar installation—a 13.8megawatt photovoltaic arrayconsisting of 31,680 panels. Under a20-year power purchase agreement(PPA), a financier (an affiliate ofMetLife, Inc.) purchased the solarsystem. It was designed and built by aprivate solar company (SunPowerCorp.), which will also operate andmaintain the system. The role of theinstallation is to provide the land forthe project and purchase electricityfrom it, at a rate locked in below thecurrent retail utility rate for 20 years.The 20-year term for the PPA—thefirst one of this duration with the

federal government—gives the Navy asignificantly better rate than 10-yearPPAs. The Navy incurs no upfrontcosts. The array is projected to meetapproximately 30 percent of theinstallation’s annual energy needs andreduce its energy costs by about $13million over the 20-year life of thecontract. The components of the solarenergy system are shipped in pre-assembled power block kits to facili-tate rapid installation on the site.

Decreasing Vehicle Petroleum UseIn Fiscal Year (FY) 2009, Naval Station(NS) Everett began working with theNAVFAC Northwest Navy OperationalSupport Center to convert their non-tactical vehicle fleet to run on 100percent alternative fuel. By February2013 the transition was complete,creating a fleet of 200 light andmedium duty vehicles. All vehicles inthe fleet are either low speed electricvehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, orcompatible with biodiesel or E85 (a

blend of 85 percent denaturedethanol fuel and 15 percent gasoline).This makes Naval Station Everett thefirst installation in the Department ofNavy to have a vehicle fleet poweredalmost entirely by alternative fuels.(The fleet still uses some gasoline inE85 flex fuel vehicles because thefleet managers found that using gaso-line for one out of every five tankshelp keeps the engine runningsmoothly.) The installation accom-plished this through a three-prongapproach of:

� Installing a biodiesel and E85filling station on-site

� Exchanging 46 full size vehiclesfor low speed electric vehicles

� Aggressively making use of theGeneral Services Administration(GSA) schedule for acquiring,replacing and exchanging vehicles

Looking ahead, NS Everett iscommitted to expanding its electricvehicle charging infrastructure to

support not only thecurrent low speed electricvehicles, but future full-size electric vehicles andplug-in hybrids. As partof this effort, the installa-tion is negotiating withGSA to run a pilotprogram for compactand mid-size electricvehicles.

Managing StormwaterRunoffThe construction contractfor $6.3 million inimprovements at NavalWeapons Station Earle inNew Jersey included theNavy’s low impact devel-opment requirements as


Low-speed electric vehicles like this cargo van are well suited for vehicles confined to the installation grounds.


well as those of the State of New Jersey. Compared to pre-developed conditions, the state requires annual ground-water recharge to be maintained, and runoff rate, runoffvolume, and total suspended solids to be reduced. Theproject’s stormwater management measures included twounderground precast concrete infiltration basins to accom-modate the runoff from most of the impervious areaswithin the project site. The basins provide groundwaterrecharge for 100 percent of the site’s annual preconstruc-tion groundwater recharge volume, and completely infil-

trate runoff from a two-year storm. The project includedthe construction of a new building, and a rainwater collec-tion and reuse system was installed to collect and storerainwater from the roof. The system not only reducesstormwater runoff, but the installation uses the harvestedwater to flush toilets. As a result of the measures, theannual runoff flowing from the site contains 80 percentless total suspended solids on average, and the peak runoffrates for 2-, 10-, and 100-year design storms are less thanthey were prior to the project.

Reducing WastePutting Construction and Demolition Debris to Work

The Sustainable Solid Waste Program at Naval WeaponsStation, Seal Beach in California diverted almost 99percent of its construction and demolition (C&D) debrisaway from disposal in FY 2012, avoiding over $141,000 indisposal costs. The installation achieved this remarkablesuccess by making clear demands of contractors andproviding them with guidance, including information onavenues for reusing and recycling construction debris. Theinstallation has an on-site manager for the SustainableSolid Waste program who works collaboratively with theinstallation’s Environmental Aspects and RequirementsReview process. The process had been merged into thebusiness processes of the base’s Public Works Departmentfor the planning, design and construction of all FacilityEngineering and Acquisition Department projects. Thepartnership has improved the effectiveness of projectreviews, improved compliance, made project execution

more efficient, and improved the identification of opportu-nities for solid waste diversion, as well as other sustain-ability goals. Specific components of the Sustainable SolidWaste Program are as follows:

� The installation requires C&D debris contractors tosubmit a C&D Debris Monthly Diversion Report whichsummarizes their waste diversion efforts. The installa-tion also provides these contractors with a list of localC&D recyclers at pre-construction meetings.

� Contract oversight of Facility Engineering and Acquisi-tion Department projects now includes continuousmonitoring of municipal waste dumpsters andconstruction sites.

� Contractors for projects that cost more than $100,000and generate more than one ton of C&D debris mustsubmit a Solid Waste Management Plan. The Planmust be approved by the program’s on-site manager,and must describe actions to be taken to reduce solidwaste generation and approaches to be used in recy-cling and reuse. It must also estimate the types andquantities of waste to be generated, and include atarget diversion percentage rate (at least 50 percentof the total generated) and a list of specific wastematerials that will be either recycled or salvaged forresale or reuse.

To ensure that organic waste is recycled or composted,program management provides direction and assistanceon scope of work specifications for projects that produceorganic waste through vegetation trimming, clearing andgrubbing.

Reclaiming Used Fuel

The Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics CenterPearl Harbor provides logistics support to the Pacific Fleet.At its Fuel Oil Reclamation Facility, the Center reclaimed237,000 gallons of fuel in FY 2010 and FY 2011 that couldnot be used (was “not ready for issue”) until it was recondi-tioned. Previously, the fuel would have been disposed of as

Naval Station Everett is the first installation in the Department of Navy to havea vehicle fleet powered almost entirely by alternative fuels.

oily waste, but its reclamation enabledthe Center to sell the fuel to a localrefinery instead, generating a netsavings of $3.9 million. The installa-tion made the reclamation possible bychanging the procedures used foroffloading used fuel onto barges atJoint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam. Thenew procedures chemically test thematerial placed onto each barge to

ensure that all material loaded ontobarges intended for reclamation canbe recovered as Fuel Oil Reclaimed,and is not contaminated with othermaterial. This allows the entire load onsuch barges to be discharged to theFuel Oil Reclamation Facility, ratherthan disposing of it as oily waste.

Electronic StewardshipNaval Base San Diego (NBSD)hosted its seventh ElectronicWaste Recycling Event in March2012, enabling 35 Navycommands to get rid of old appli-ances and electronic waste, whileknowing the material would berecycled or otherwise properlyprocessed for dispositionthrough the Defense LogisticsAgency’s Disposition Services.This year Commands turned infour and half tons of appliancesand 14 tons of electronicwaste, valued at more than$200,000, which was properlyrecycled or resold. “E-Waste”Recycling Events are a proven


Hosting events at NBSD to turn in unwanted electronics ensures their environmentally sound disposition and frees up storage space.

approach for the base. It has hostedseven in the past three years, and sofar the events have pulled in morethan 87 tons of electronics and 30tons of appliances for recycling andresale, saving over $1 million indisposal costs. The event accepts awide range of government-ownedmaterials: computers, laptops, elec-tronics of all sorts, refrigerators,microwaves, televisions, cell phones,video cassette recorders, copiers,printers, tape players, modems,compact disc players, radios, type-writers, scanners, telephones,washers, dryers, freezers, trashcompactors, space heaters, waterheaters, air conditioners, ovens,stoves, and dishwashers. The eventsare held in the base’s “wet side”parking lot, open to active duty,reserves and civilian Navy personnel.NBSD has developed a guide on howto conduct the event, available at:www.cnic.navy.mil/navycni/groups/public/documents/document/cnicp_a300509.pdf.

This set of success stories illustratesthe breadth of sustainability, andprovides concrete examples that othernaval installations can use in formu-lating their own paths to operationsthat are both smarter and moresustainable. A future issue of Currentswill focus on sustainability successeswith facility energy, water and build-ings. If you would like to highlight inthat issue a successful approach yourinstallation has taken to improvesustainability, on these topics or anyother, please submit your storydirectly to Judith Barry. �

CONTACT

Judith BarryNoblis, [email protected]

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